Exhibition “Feelings”

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December 10, 2024

On December 10, International Human Rights Day, the Museum of Free Belarus hosted the opening of the exhibition “Feelings” alongside the presentation of the music album “Marked in Yellow.”

Organized by the human rights center “Viasna”, the exhibition featured over 100 artworks created by Belarusian political prisoners while in detention. These pieces are cries of the soul encoded in lines, images, and colors, reflecting the longing for freedom, love for family, and resilience in the face of injustice.

“Feelings” is an emotional message from behind prison walls, giving a voice to those who are silenced yet continue their struggle. In today’s conditions, when sending artworks from detention is prohibited and many works are destroyed, these creations have gained special significance, preserved by the prisoners themselves, their families, and human rights defenders.

Curator: Former political prisoner Artsiom Zadrutski.

Арцём Задруцкі

At the opening, a unique work was also presented — the music album “Marked in Yellow”, which includes six tracks illustrating a political prisoner’s journey from arrest to release. The lyrics are based on real testimonies, while the arrangements incorporate archival recordings of arrests, court proceedings, and prisoners’ voices. Among others, listeners can hear Maria Kalesnikava’s handcuffs, the outrage of residents during Stepan Latypau’s arrest at “Ploscha Peramen”, the voice of Siarhei Tsikhanouski, and readings of letters from prisoners’ children.

The album was created collaboratively by poets, actors, musicians, human rights defenders, and former political prisoners. Visitors at the exhibition opening had the opportunity to meet some of this talented team in person.

Выстава «Пачуцці»
Выстава «Пачуцці»
Выстава «Пачуцці»
Выстава «Пачуцці»
Выстава «Пачуцці»
Выстава «Пачуцці»
Exhibition “Feelings”. Warsaw, 2024. Photo: Museum of Free Belarus

Visitors at the Exhibition “Feelings”. Warsaw, 2024Photo: Museum of Free Belarus