Voices Of The Edge

A journey through Poland's Orthodox villages along the eastern border and the Bug River, exploring its cultural heritage and following Lukasz Hajduczenja, baritone and researcher, reviving Polish Orthodox liturgical music

This documentary photographic project captures the lives and culture of the Orthodox minority in Poland, primarily located in the Podlaskie and Lubelskie regions, along the scenic Bug River at the Belarusian border. These regions are unique, untouched lands where diverse cultures and religions coexist, including Orthodox Christians, Jews, Muslims, and ethnic minorities such as Belarusians, Tatars, and Ukrainians. Known for its vast green landscapes, one of the largest in Europe, the area is rich in history and spiritual depth.

The project began at the sacred Jabłeczna Monastery, a revered spiritual center where monks reside and continue ancient traditions. It is here that Łukasz Hajduczenja, a baritone and researcher dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Polish Orthodox liturgical music, drew inspiration to form his ensemble, "Katapetasma." In this project, I follow Łukasz through his childhood memories and the landscapes that inspired him, where he was able to realize his musical compositions based on his research. This musical and cultural heritage is a hidden treasure that deserves to be known and shared. Through this photographic journey, the project seeks to explore the intersection of faith, tradition, and the unique multicultural identity of this remarkable region.