On the Lower San River. Nature, landscapes, tradition. Photography by Adam Krzykwa.
December 2009 – March 2010
Outdoor exhibition, square in front of the Ballada cinema, 14 Staszica St. Referring to the saying ‘You praise others, you do not know your own’, this exhibition presents the natural and cultural assets of the Lower Silesian region as seen through the eyes of Adam Krzykwa, a naturalist and photographer.
In addition to the landscapes of the San River, the large-format photographs depict the richness of the local forests, which were the remnants of the once vast Sandomierz Forest, and the beauty of the San, a picturesque river which for centuries was an important water transport route and had a major impact on the farming methods of the local people.
The old significance of the river is recalled by the rafting customs, which are still nurtured by the St Barbara Brotherhood of the Ulaanov Region, which operates in Ulaanov.
Inextricably linked with the San landscape is the willow wicker, growing wild on the banks of the San. Since the mid-19th century, it has become a raw material continuously used in basketry and furniture making. Today, in an era of interest in products made from natural raw materials, it has found wider use. Today’s wicker products take the form of small works of art.
The uniqueness of the cultural landscape of the region is determined by architectural monuments, sacredart and, above all, the still cultivated tradition of grave guards, known as Turks. This is one of the more vibrant Easter customs that have survived along the San River. In addition to their duty of guarding the Lord’s Tomb, assisting at Holy Week services, the Turks participate in colourful parades. They also walk with greetings, generating much interest among the local community.
The exhibition is a journey through the interesting San valley, during which one can discover many natural corners, unique monuments and encounter cultural phenomena of the region.