The publication Where the Fire Slumbers has been produced in collaboration with MGML Jakopič Gallery in Ljubljana and is the result of a working period in the Slovenian regions of Koroška and Ptuj, exploring themes of industrial transition and local identity.

The single publication—measuring a monumental 32 x 45 cm—is only available for purchase at the gallery during the exhibition Ordinary People from May 27 until October 4, 2026. I am offering 3 x 33 numbered and signed copies, all of which come with an archival print.

About the work:
In the old steel factory at Ravne na Koroškem, people proudly talk about the quality of the steel it produces. The owner is Russian. The factory is running at a loss and under bank supervision. Everyone is hoping for a new, European owner. With the elections approaching, government officials come to visit in person. Afterwards, a meal is shared in the adjacent restaurant.

Entire families once worked in the factory. That is long gone. Advanced technology has taken over part of the work. For the remaining positions, it is difficult to find workers, despite the school that trains young people for the job. With rising prosperity, most young people’s ambitions lie elsewhere. The factory therefore recruits staff from far away: from Nepal, from Uzbekistan.

Meanwhile, prosperity finds its way. Motorcycles are started, game is hunted, traditions continue to live. Just like in any region in Europe, the local culture and customs in this region hold great value, and while the outside world is becoming ever smaller and more accessible, these traditions must be preserved and maintained. Preferably without too much interference from the outside, because, especially in a united Europe, local differences have to be cherished.

Title: Where the Fire Slumbers / Kjer ogenj tli
Concept and photography: Rob Hornstra
Text: Arnold van Bruggen
Editors: Julija Hoda, Petra Radoja
Bilingual: English / Slovenian
Volume: Paperback, 28 pages, 32 x 45 cm.
Publisher: Museum and Galleries of Ljubljana
Includes: Archival print on Hahnemühle Baryta
Title: The Fieldworkers, Janževski Vrh, Slovenia, 2026
Size: 28 x 35 cm
Edition: 33 copies + 2 AP
Certificate of authenticity: Numbered and signed