A symbol of peace

A memorable date of our people’s unity has recently been widely celebrated, with craftsmen contributing to its greatness

Belarusians have always lived in harmony. From time immemorial, Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches stood side by side on neighbouring streets, while believers congratulated each other on holidays. Mixed marriages were commonplace as well.

Genetically, our nation is good in creativity and joint work. “In many economic and creative affairs, everyone was ready to help others,” confirmed Marina Chikun, the Director of the Nasledie [Heritage] Crafts House at the Grodno City Centre of Culture. “With this in mind, our craftsmen decided to create a large canvas – My Belarus – featuring all six regions of the country a symbol of unity, peacefulness and mutual understanding.”

The 2x1.5m patchwork consists of six pieces of fabric of different colours and is actually a kind of a map of the upcoming craft exhibitions, fairs and festivals. In the future, new events will be added to it.

“This work was part of an art project dedicated to the National Unity Day,” added Natalia Gagauzova, who heads the Day Care Department for the Elderly at Grodno’s Centre of Social Services. “The programme of the art project included master classes of folk craftsmen, poetic and culinary competitions, as well as a song marathon of representatives of different nationalities.”

The patchwork will be presented in Grodno, as part of an exhibition of folk crafts and a folklore concert.