Belarus (magazine #10 2014) by BELARUS Magazine

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No.10 (973), 2014

BELARUS

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Беларусь. Belarus

Politics, Economy, Culture

Culture as a Style of Life

Events in Belarus and abroad

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contents

Беларусь.Belarus Monthly magazine No. 10 (973), 2014 Published since 1930 State Registration Certificate of mass medium No.8 dated March 2nd, 2009, issued by the Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus

Integration changes configuration

4 7

Chisinau meeting inspires interest President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko’s official visit to Moldova inspires wave of substantial negotiations

Trust and pragmatism

Not by bread alone...

Voice, style, taste, intellect…

Useful dialogue continues Belarus

Masterpieces worth their weight in gold National brand of Belarus — Slutsk

Ovations sound across Polesie

Ballet, comedy, tragedy, concerts and films to suit every taste New cultural

Mission is feasible

Logical chain established

Yatskovshchina — San Francisco — Yatskovshchina Those descended from

and Turkmenistan agree new areas of cooperation for ‘roadmap’

old man Pavlyuk, from the small Belarusian village located remotely on the border between the districts of Lyakhovichi (Brest Region) and Kletsk (Minsk Region) are now scattered far and wide, but still return often to the land of their forebears

беларусь.belarus 2014

Executive Secretary: Valentina Zhdanovich

Design and Layout by

Беларусь.Belarus is published in Belarusian, English, Spanish and Polish.

season in Belarus brings traditional wealth of premieres for audiences

I’M GRATEFUL TO MY FATE

Editor: Viktor Kharkov

Vadim Kondrashov Nadezhda Ponkratova

belts — experience second birth

Founders: The Ministry of Information of the Republic of Belarus “SB” newspaper editorial office Belvnesheconombank

Love in focus National Academic Maxim

Gorky Drama Theatre premieres Italian-Belarusian Viva Commedia — the first such ‘comedia dell’arte’ performance to be staged by a foreign director in Belarus

Carnival mood on city streets

Distributed in 50 countries of the world. Final responsibility for factual accuracy or interpretation rests with the authors of the publications. Should any article of Беларусь.Belarus be used, the reference to the magazine is obligatory. The magazine does not bear responsibility for the contents of advertisements.

Publisher: “SB” editorial office This magazine has been printed at State Entertainment “Publishers “Belarus Printing House”. 79 Nezavisimosti Ave., Minsk, Belarus, 220013 Order No. 2960 Total circulation — 1920 copies (including 729 in English).

Write us to the address: 11 Kiselyov Str., Minsk, Belarus, 220029. Tel.: +375 (17) 290-62-24, 290-66-45. Tel./Fax: +375 (17) 290-68-31. www.belarus-magazine.by E-mail: mail@belarus-magazine.by Subscription index in Belpochta catalogue — 74977 For future foreign subscribers for ‘Belarus’ magazine, apply to ‘MK-Periodica’ agency.

BEAUTY FOR CENTURIES FROM IVAN DMUKHAILO

E-mail: info@periodicals.ru Telephone in Minsk: +375 (17) 227-09-10.

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editor's note

Time. Events. People

ondering what it means to be ‘cultured’ I’ve concluded that it involves more than mere education — although this is a vital component. It often happens that an educated person demonstrates a lack of ‘culture’ while those without formal education and prestigious diplomas show an inherent sense of good taste and intelligence. The topic of our current issue sounds as Culture as a Style of Life, revealing this multi-faceted notion. Meanwhile, it often happens that those who are likely to bring culture to the public (by the nature of their profession) don’t always meet the highest criteria. However, there are enough illustrative examples in the arsenal of our publications, proving the opposite. For example, Beauty for Centuries from Ivan Dmukhailo, discusses how a creative individual can contribute their own legacy and that some, the select few, are able to definitely create works which endure beyond their lifetime. I’m Grateful to My Fate tells us about the Rector of the Belarusian State University, Sergei Ablameiko: a highly educated person and highly cultural. What shapes our cultural outlook? Of course, our contemporary experience is inspired by the past, our roots and our rich cultural heritage. That which is worthy of remembrance is being restored, such as we see in the example of Belarusian Slutsk belts: Masterpieces Worth their Weight in Gold looks at the revival of this ‘calling card’, which began two years ago,

via a state programme. About 300 years ago, these beautiful belts were woven from golden and silver threads. So special were they that French masters reproduced them as best they could, creating ‘fakes’. Much time and efforts of various specialists from different spheres have been spent on the restoration of production technology. Scientists and art experts from the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus collected and studied rarities, being assisted by painters and designers in creating a concept for belt restoration. Meanwhile, employees from the Vitebsk Technological University were developing a unique computerised weaving loom. The first Slutsk belt was an absolute copy of an original and presented to the President during his visit to Slutsk this spring. Weighing 0.5kg and being 3.5m long, it was donated by Alexander Lukashenko transferred to the Palace of Independence for safe-keeping. Culture is a living concept, nourished by traditions. Some say that Polesie is the ancestral homeland of the Slavs, as well as the birthplace and home of Kirill Turovsky, who is thought to be among the potential authors of The Tale of Igor’s Campaign: a golden treasure of ancient Russian literature. Historians and local experts may continue to debate the truth of this argument; nevertheless, Polesie is a place like no other. Gomel Region’s Lyaskovichi recently hosted the 3rd International Festival of Ethnocultural Traditions — the Call of Polesie, bringing together districts within Gomel and Brest regions of Polesie, alongside our closest neighbours: the Russians, Ukrainians and Poles. Its call has even reached remote China, as you read in Ovation Sound across Polesie. Culture is multi-faceted, comprising various components, which do not always sit in harmony. Perhaps, the greatest aspect of ‘culture’ is that of our manners and behaviour: the way we conduct ourselves. By Viktor Kharkov

2014 беларусь.belarus

Panorama Issues relating to progress

 In gratitude for co-operation UNDP Administrator Helen Clark highly praises Belarus’ role in regulating the situation in Ukraine

UN General Assembly sees Belarus call for rejection of imposed models of development and extraneous cultural preferences

uring the general debate of the UN General Assembly, Belarus’ Foreign Minister, Vladimir Makei, announced that Belarus suggests seeking paths to mutual understanding at international level, rejecting the policy of imposition of political and economic models of development, as well as of extraneous cultural preferences. The Minister set out Belarus’ guiding principles for international co-operation and the United Nations’ role in this process, while noting that this year sees Belarus mark the 70th anniversary of its liberation from Nazi invaders. He called upon those present to learn lessons from World War II, which was a tragedy for all humanity. Mr. Makei emphasized the need to resolve international issues by creating

 Interested dialogue acutely relevant Belarusian parliamentary delegation takes part in autumn session of OSCE Parliamentary Assembly

he organization is a convenient venue for discussing the globe’s most acute problems and paths of solution. This time, the Ukrainian crisis was to the fore, with Belarus’ views voiced authoritatively. The first steps on the way to the peace in Ukraine were recently taken in Minsk, in late August, when the Belarusian capital hosted a summit attracting representatives from the Customs Union, Ukraine and the European Union. Later, an agreement was signed on the cease-fire, with the

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global partnerships with participation of member states, international organisations and civil society. It is in this manner that Belarus proposes to resolve such issues as the negative effect of globalisation, inequality, poverty, climate change, consumption of energy, food security and the need for water resources. Within the UN forum, Belarus often advances suggestions on such issues as combating human trafficking and strengthening the institute of the traditional family. The Head of the Belarusian Foreign Ministry expressed his hope that, on the way to the next UN summit, which is due next year, the international community will tackle such urgent spheres as conflict resolution and international sustainable development.

s. Clark has thanked the Belarusian leadership for taking concrete steps to help Ukrainian refugees in Belarus, speaking to Belarus’ Prime Minister, Mikhail Myasnikovich, in New York. Both sides are satisfied with their productive co-operation and have agreed to continue implementing UNDP programmes and projects in Belarus (in line with national priorities for development). The necessity for continuing international Chernobyl collaboration has also been agreed (with the UNDP in a co-ordinating role). Ms. Clark expressed her gratitude for the organization of her visit to Belarus this May, and confirmed that all agreements reached during the visit will be fulfilled. Ms. Clark also noted that she is an active supporter of promoting Belarus’ interests in its relations with other countries and organizations, including the WTO.

results of those Minsk meetings praised by foreign experts. No doubt, the peace-process will take time and effort. Speaking on the Ukrainian situation, the Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly’s House of Representatives, Victor Guminsky, underlined, “The Ukrainian crisis is a serious challenge to European security — including the OSCE and its military-political side.” Since the beginning of the crisis, Belarus has been calling upon parties to abstain from violence and find a peaceful solution: no mere diplomatic rhetoric but a real compromise. With this in mind, Mr. Guminsky voiced a key thought in Geneva, saying that our country is ready to further contribute to the peace-process in Ukraine in all possible formats — including as a negotiation venue. Belarus has many times proposed initiatives at international forums.

Over the past two years two Belaruspromoted resolutions have been almost unanimously adopted at the OSCE PA: dealing with economic and social rights in the region. On meeting Mr. Guminsky, the Chairman of the OSCE PA, Ilkka Kanerva, voiced his appreciation of Belarus’ active position on the international arena. Belarusian parliamentarians’ interest in the expansion of practical cooperation with foreign colleagues was proven by Mr. Guminsky’s meetings with Didier Burkhalter — the Swiss President and the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, and his meetings with heads of German, Slovakian, Finnish, Swiss, Czech and Montenegrin delegations. Importantly, those meetings demonstrate that dialogue with the West is warming and that the role of deputies is significant.

VISIT

Chisinau meeting inspires interest President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko’s official visit to Moldova inspires wave of substantial negotiations

ven before Mr. Lukashenko’s plane had landed at Chisinau airport, representatives of business circles had gathered at the Palace of the Republic for a business forum: over 100 from Moldova and 40 from Belarus. Moldovan businesses are extremely eager to form partnerships with Belarusian colleagues, especially since gaining entry to the EU free trade zone on September the 1st. Moldova now has access to new markets but some traditional export avenues are closing; Russia, for example, has introduced a number of protective measures. Local businesses are anxious that Belarus will follow a similar path, having corresponding obligations in the Customs Union, and immediate prospects in the Eurasian Economic Union. For the time being, our country is among Moldova’s main trading partners, purchasing at least a third of Moldovan exports. It’s no surprise then that businesses from both our countries seek to build on this, while avoiding any hindrances from membership of integration associations. In fact, there are advantages to the situation, since joint produc-

tion associations on the territory of each would give the other country access to a wider market in third countries. A business dialogue began vigorously, with four contracts signed to deliver ceramic tiles, and vehicle sets for Belarusian trolley buses and tractors; Brest Belalko JSC and Tiraspol Plant

having last met in Minsk in 2000. No bilateral official contacts had been made at top-level since then, so there was much to discuss. However, as the President of Belarus noted, interstate relations continue regardless of such meetings. Minsk views Chisinau as a reliable and close partner and values its

Minsk is a committed and continuous supporter of the Eurasian vector. However, this position does not need to present obstacles, since Belarus persistently promotes the idea of an ‘integration of integrations’ allowing trade more easily — from Lisbon to Vladivostok Kvint have signed co-operative agreements. Then, there followed a chain of negotiations regarding co-operation on the stock exchange. President Lukashenko arrived on time at the State Residence, to hold official negotiations with the Head of Moldova, Nicolae Timofti. The two spent more time than initially planned,

healthy dynamics of trade, which are ever improving. Trade has increased 5fold since 2000, reaching almost $360m a year. At the start of the business forum, participants spoke about the real possibility of reaching $500m, with members of the Belarusian delegation assuring the President that this is an achievable target. 2014 беларусь.belarus

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VISIT

Presidents Alexander Lukashenko and Nicolae Timofti

One of the central themes discussed by the heads of state was that of industrial co-operation. Our agricultural machinery and trolley buses are already assembled in Moldova and buses are now being planned, for use on Moldova’s newly modernized roads. Mr. Lukashenko underlined that our country is ready to provide everything needed by Moldovan partners — including machine-building devices, petrochemical production facilities, light industry goods, building materials, home appliances and foodstuffs. Judging by the enterprises taking part in negotiations, these initiatives seem likely to come to fruition. беларусь.belarus 2014

Since business interaction always develops more successfully against a background of mutual political understanding, high-level visits are important. Chisinau has signed and ratified an agreement on association with the EU, while Minsk is a committed supporter of the Eurasian vector. However, this position does not need to present obstacles, since Belarus persistently promotes the idea of an ‘integration of integrations’: allowing trade more easily — from Lisbon to Vladivostok. The President has told journalists that final details still need to be agreed, to ensure that neither side is disadvantaged, but he believes that all questions

can be solved at the negotiating table. It benefits neither Minsk, nor Chisinau, Moscow or Kiev to be ‘at odds’ economically. Belarus always keeps its promises, as the President emphasizes, and prefers to discuss difficulties in an open and fair manner, expecting the same from its partners. Between Moldova and Belarus no barriers need to exist. On the contrary, we can use the advantages of our two integration vectors to benefit all our citizens. The second day of the official visit of the President to Moldova began with a ceremony of laying a wreath at the monument to Ste-

VISIT

For the time being, our country is among Moldova’s main trading partners, purchasing at least a third of Moldovan exports. It’s no surprise then that businesses from both our countries seek to build on this, while avoiding any hindrances from membership of integration associations. In fact, there are advantages to the situation, since joint production associations on the territory of each would give the other country access to a wider market in third countries fan the Great: a National Hero of Moldova. Mr. Lukashenko then met the Chairman of the Moldovan Parliament, Igor Corman, and leaders of parliamentary groups, continuing the substantial political dialogue begun the day before. Moldova has a florid configuration of political forces, with parties and parliamentary groups adhering to polar views, bringing quite unfriendly relations and rare unification on any issue. Leaders of all directions of policy met the Belarusian President, which speaks volumes for the importance attached to partnership with Belarus. Igor Corman noted that a third of all deputies comprise the parliamentary group dedicated to Belarusian-Moldovan friendship. After warm greetings, conversation passed to the theme of co-operation and how to take advantage of our nations’ differently directed integration associations in the best way. Mr. Сorman explained Moldova’s choice of orientation towards the EU, believing that it is a more suitable path to modernization. At the same time, the country wishes to cultivate constructive interaction with traditional partners.

Belarus’ position is well-known, and the country is eager to find mutually acceptable variants of co-operation. Mr. Lukashenko reported on

Quotations During the final press conference, journalists asked Alexander Lukashenko to express his opinion on the future situation in Ukraine. His answer was as follows: “The way out of this conflict will be very hard, with catastrophic consequences remaining in the minds of those who have lost relatives. It is a path which must be trodden. I believe that war can be avoided, since it will bring no clear winner. Neither side can win, so what is the point of such conflict. Both sides understand this and have ceased this slaughter-house of massacre, which is major progress. War cannot be stopped at once. It is easy to start and to escalate, but withdrawal is much harder. It has always been so, through history. Too much has already been done...”

prospects to the leaders of the various Moldovan political parties, as he did with Prime Minister Iurie Leancă. Bilateral interaction was to the fore, with the head of the Moldovan Government expressing interest in discussing a wider range of problems facing regional policy. Moldova appreciates the major role played by Belarus within the international arena. The following part of the second day took on a practical, business character, with the Presidents of Belarus and Moldova jointly opening the Keramin commercial centre. In truth, constructive co-operation does not need to contradict the foreign policy or economic aspirations of our two countries. On the contrary, it can fill them with material content. The Centre is home to several floors housing goods made by Belarusian enterprises, which President Lukashenko believes will encourage other manufacturers. He assured those present at the ceremony that the opening of the Keramin Centre is just the beginning of the major co-operation, and that growth in goods turnover should result. He added that his meetings and negotiations look set to at least double volumes of mutual trade from today’s $1bln. The President of Moldova, Nicolae Timofti, agreed. The President of Belarus advised avoiding the dramatization of temporary economic problems, saying “Believe that nothing is insurmountable; we will be good fellow travellers.” The Keramin Centre is to become the meeting place for the Belarusian diaspora, encouraging further business contacts. The President’s dialogue with Moldovan Belarusians was especially warm, and included a chat with a 90year old veteran, Vladimir Voitsekhovich, who liberated Belarus and Moldova. He is a Doctor of Engineering, and a Professor, who taught the first President of Sovereign Moldova, Mircea Snegur. Honoured and respected in Moldova, his path has been one of the great achievement and value: an example to all. By Dmitry Kryat

2014 беларусь.belarus

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

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Trust and pragmatism Even during the years of global crisis, the Chinese economy grew at an enviable rate. According to last year’s estimates, China’s contribution to the world economic growth totalled around 30 percent, ranking it second only to the USA. Some view the Asian dragon with scepticism, while others have only respect, believing that China is soon to become the world GDP leader. It surely makes sense to co-operate with such a nation, as Belarus is doing, receiving reciprocated interest from China.

ince diplomatic relations began, over 20 years ago, Belarus’ volume of trade with China has increased almost 100-fold: last year, worth almost $3.3bn. Over 40 representatives and subsidiaries of Chinese corporations are currently working in Belarus, including ZTE, Huawei and SINOMACH. Moreover, humanitarian exchange is active, and around 2,000 Chinese students are studying at Belarusian universities (over 400 Belarusian students in China). In early 2014 our nations approved a programme to develop comprehensive strategic partnership until 2018. Meanwhile, the First Vice Prime Minister of the State Council of China, Zhang Gaoli, recently visited Minsk, to discuss promising areas of interaction. Meeting the influential politician, President Alexander Lukashenko underlined that беларусь.belarus 2014

the development of relations with China continues to be a strategic priority for Belarus’ foreign policy. Dozens of successfully implemented Belarusian-Chinese projects confirm that distance and differences in size of population or economy are no obstacle if trust, equality and pragmatism prevail at the inter-state level. Such an approach benefits both countries. Mr. Lukashenko is eager to expand collaboration with China, explaining, “Our interest is in having a very powerful foundation in the face of a gigantic state like China (upon whom our contemporary world relies). Support from China benefits the independence of our state. With the same support from Russia, Belarus becomes almost invulnerable.” China seeks greater collaboration with Europe, to further position itself as a global super-power; in this context, Belarus is a useful partner.

Trade-economic and investment cooperation is the most important area of Belarusian-Chinese interaction, with various Chinese companies realizing projects in Belarus: from modernization of the power system to the construction of cement plants and roads. The production of Geely passenger cars has been launched not far from Minsk and a recent agreement opens two longterm credit lines from China — worth up to $1bln. The money is to be directed towards industry, power engineering, transport, and the development of small and medium-sized businesses. The construction of the Chinese-Belarusian Industrial Park should become a truly landmark project, focusing on innovative production with export potential. During the meeting in Minsk, Mr. Lukashenko and Mr. Gaoli agreed to speed up construction of the site. By Yevgeny Kononovich

COOPERATION

Useful dialogue continues Belarus and Turkmenistan agree new areas of co-operation for ‘roadmap’

President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov

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op-level contacts between Minsk and Ashgabat have developed greatly in recent times, with our presidents meeting annually, alternately in Belarus and Turkmenistan. Besides political liaisons, we’ve nurtured economic collaboration, inspiring a number of mutually beneficial joint ventures. Each official meeting by our heads of state not only monitors the fulfilment of agreements but drives forward further collaboration across various spheres. Mr. Lukashenko hosted his Turkmen colleague, Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, at the Palace of Independence — discussing issues in narrow and extended formats. Initially, Mr. Lukashenko focused on the presidents’ eagerness to develop inter-state liaisons. Trade turnover has reached almost $0.5bln in a very short period of time, leading to Turkmenistan being ranked fourth among our trade partners: behind Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan. No such relationship existed in Soviet times, proving that new levels of interaction are possible where the de2014 беларусь.belarus

COOPERATION sire exists. Moreover, much more is yet to be achieved. Mr. Berdimuhamedov is keen to promote joint work in machine building, metallurgy, the chemical and food industries, agriculture and education, among other areas — with Minsk in agreement. Mr. Lukashenko has proposed increasing deliveries of trucks and tractors to Turkmenistan, as well as harvesters, buses and cargo freight carriages. In fact, harvesters and buses are already being tested in Turkmenistan and are demonstrating good results; it seems likely that supply contracts will soon be signed. However, this is only part of a major Turkmen programme of transport infrastructure development, aiming to connect neighbouring states to the Persian Gulf via optimal automobile and railway routes. The project will require the construction of logistics centres, with which Belarus is keen to help, having experience. The mining and chemical industries also offer prospects, as does large-scale housing construction in Turkmenistan, using Belarusian materials and lifts. Joint ventures in light and textile industries look promising, with a factory sewing uniforms for Turkmen power agencies likely soon to open. Perhaps the biggest venture is the construction of mining and processing facilities at Garlyk, by Belarusian specialists. Our presidents agree that this is most certainly of mutual benefit. We enjoy many mutual interests, leading to Mr. Berdimuhamedov supporting Mr. Lukashenko’s proposals to lay out more detailed plans - via the Inter-governmental Commission for Economic Co-operation. In elaborating a clear ‘roadmap’, efforts can be optimised, for maximum efficiency. Our humanitarian collaboration is of no less importance, with over 8,000 Turkmen students already studying in Belarus; Ashgabat is keen to increase their number, leading to Mr. Lukashenko asking Prime Minister Mikhail Myasnikovich to explore the construction of a hostel dedicated to Turkmen students. Scientific exchange programmes have brought a great many scientists to Belarus from Turkmenistan, беларусь.belarus 2014

inspiring plans to build a dedicated hotel for their use as well. As a result of negotiations, almost 15 documents have been signed, promoting interaction across diverse spheres. The presidents made a joint statement confirming the progress of inter-state relations — politically and economically. Both heads of state noted the substantive

much. Belarus has allocated a beautiful and prestigious site, close to the Palace of Independence, where a ‘territory of friends’ is being formed. Nearby, Kazakhstan has begun construction of its new diplomatic mission building, and the Russian Embassy is situated on the other side, as is a residential complex for working diplomats. Such geography speaks much

On the one hand, regular official meetings of the heads of the states have nature of inspection of their agreements fulfillment. On the other hand, they are a kind of a catalyzer of cooperation in all areas… As a result of negotiations, almost 15 documents have been signed, promoting interaction across diverse spheres. The presidents made a joint statement confirming the progress of interstate relations — politically and economically and constructive character of their talks, and Mr. Lukashenko thanked Mr. Berdimuhamedov for approving most of the initiatives offered by Belarus: new projects are now to be added to the 16 already being implemented in Turkmenistan, with support from Belarus. These look set to be worth at least $1.145bln. Dialogue continues, with the next top level meeting scheduled to take place in Ashgabat. Terms are to be agreed along diplomatic channels, but the principal invitation has been voiced and accepted. Minsk and Ashgabat have a clear vision of the way forward, as symbolized by Mr. Lukashenko and Mr. Berdimuhamedov laying a ‘time-capsule’ in the foundations of the new Embassy of Turkmenistan to Minsk. The gesture confirmimg the seriousness of intentions and, clearly, the construction of a beautiful building in the country with which one plans to co-operate, long and constructively, says

of Belarusian foreign political priorities. The President of Belarus is convinced that the creation of an island of Turkmen in Minsk will open up new opportunities for expanded collaboration. He has called the embassy complex a house of friendship and hopes to see the model repeated. Mr. Lukashenko emphasized that a site will be chosen for the construction of a student hostel and hotel for scientists arriving from Turkmenistan. Mr. Berdimuhamedov thanked his Belarusian colleague for this and assured him that the new embassy building will be a place in which Belarusians will be welcome to learn more about the culture and arts of Turkmenistan, as well as hosting scientists and cultural figures. He declared, “I’m confident that the building will stand on strong foundations of friendship and mutual understanding; its doors will always be open to friends and partners.” By Dmitry Kryat

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SUMMIT

The heads of the states — participants of the summit in Minsk

Integration changes configuration

Minsk hosts sessions of the CIS Heads of State Council, the EurAsEC Inter-state Council and the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council

hree summits were hosted by Minsk on the same day at the Palace of Independence: the CIS Heads of State Council, the Inter-state Council of the Eurasian Economic Community, and the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council. The second and third events were held for the last time in the current format, as the Eurasian Economic Union is to move away from the ‘troika’ format, with Armenia’s accession. The current Council of the CIS Heads of State finished Belarus’ twoyear chairmanship of the Commonwealth. All participants agreed that it has been a very fruitful period and that

Minsk has worked hard, to the benefit of all (volunteering to take on an additional year instead of Kiev). As ever, diverse issues were debated. The heads of delegations signed a joint address for the CIS and the wider world community in connection with the 70th anniversary of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War. Belarus, as the country which most suffered from Fascism, pays special attention to this topic. The complex situation in Ukraine came under discussion but, unfortunately, the President of Ukraine failed to attend the summit; the country was represented by the Ukrainian Ambassador to Belarus. The CIS heads of state share a similar outlook, being eager to see a speedy cessation of military con-

flict and Ukraine’s return to a peaceful life. Meanwhile, Belarus remains faithful to its principal position that compromise must be achieved, following agreements reached in Minsk. Alexander Lukashenko asserted, “All issues under dispute should be solved peacefully. We can’t allow the blood of our brotherly nation to continue to run. This situation of an armed conflict at the centre of Europe is absolutely unacceptable.” The President of Belarus emphasised that such conflict affects the security and economic development of other countries across the post-Soviet region — not just that of Ukraine. He added that the CIS needs to tackle the situation, since Ukraine is a member state. He underlined, “This is not just my 2014 беларусь.belarus

SUMMIT point of view; I’m convinced that this position is supported by almost everyone. It’s inadmissible when vital issues regarding a country such as Ukraine are addressed somewhere else: in Berlin or Milan. If this is the case then how can we address our own economic, political or diplomatic issues? Perhaps they should be addressed in Berlin or Milan as well!” The Ukrainian topic was tackled by each of the presidents in attendance, showing that the Belarusian assessment was shared by all. Mr. Lukashenko expressed another concern, as Council Chairman, noting the trend for disintegration across the CIS. During discussion on various integration vectors, Moldova’s situation came under debate, since its joining to the European Union presents problems regarding economic collaboration with Russia, which wishes to strictly enforce trade regulations. The issue demonstrates that much debate should take place before decisions are made, with all advantages and disadvantages weighed carefully. The CIS remains a valuable forum for such a debate. Security issues such as drug trafficking, illegal migration and human trafficking came under scrutiny, with solutions including air-defence cooperation, liaisons between prosecuting agencies and financial intelligence units, and the application of joint rapid response groups: all aiming to secure border integrity. Next year is to be declared the Year of Education across the CIS, with Kazakhstan, as the new chair, giving this great consideration. The President of Kazakhstan, Nursultan Nazarbayev, assured everyone that work will follow principles upheld by Belarus during its chairmanship. The next CIS Heads of State Summit will be held in Astana next autumn. Other decisions adopted in Minsk were also of great import, with the presidents of Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Armenia gathering for the EurAsEC Inter-state Council. Chairman Vladimir Putin беларусь.belarus 2014

noted the major issue to be the signing of the treaty on the termination of the Eurasian Economic Community. Other items on the agenda flowed from this. The EurAsEC has existed for 14 years, having been created on October 10th, 2000. Mr. Lukashenko noted that the organization has promoted integration, laying foundations for the establishment of the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space (which, in their turn, have laid foundations for the Eurasian Economic Union). The logic of the next step is evident, as the President explained, “Today’s decision to change the format of our interaction reflects contemporary integration trends.” The abolition of the EurAsEC does not exempt those states outside of the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space from taking part in future integration processes. The liquidation of the community presupposes the termination of international documents now duplicated via the Eurasian Economic Union; others will continue in effect. Meanwhile, current EurAsEC members plan to move towards the Eurasian Economic Union. At present, only Tajikistan wishes to observe the work of the Eurasian Economic Union before committing itself to membership. Kyrgyzstan would like to postpone its joining until the

end of the year. The Supreme Eurasian Economic Council meeting discussed Kyrgyzstan’s current realization of its ‘roadmap’, stating that progress was evident, with support needed from other countries. This will be delivered, so that its membership can be launched. Armenia has, meanwhile, conducted all necessary preparation and has adapted its legislation to meet the standards of the Customs Union and the Single Economic Space — allowing its joining to the Eurasian Economic Union. Having been an observer to the EurAsEC, its status is enhanced. From January 1st, 2015, the Union will put aside its previous ‘troika’ format in favour of ‘four’ or even ‘five’ states. The presidents of Belarus, Russia and Kazakhstan officially announced the synchronous ratification of the Eurasian Economic Union Treaty by their countries’ parliaments. According to Mr. Lukashenko, the Eurasian Economic Union already occupies a niche within the world economic and political arena and needs now only to pass its final legislation, to create the largest common market across the Eurasian space. There is no doubt that this will be complete by the end of 2014, allowing a new, powerful economic centre to emerge on the world map. By Denis Krymov

Useful meeting Major international events are always a good reason for bilateral consultations Alexander Lukashenko negotiated with the President of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, suggesting that Belarusian-Uzbek relations should be taken to a higher level. He stated, “We can literally double our trade in 1-2 years.” He added that ‘this momentum in the trade with Uzbekistan would raise the need to advance relations in other areas’. Mr. Karimov stressed that the meeting was timely, since the media have long speculated on contradictions in Belarus-Uzbekistan relations. The President of Uzbekistan noted that Belarus is becoming more open to the global community, enhancing its international contacts. “All this proves that life is evolving, and pragmatism requires that we promote the interests of the society and people entrusting their fates with us,” Mr. Karimov said.

DIPLOMACY

iplomacy, as well as money, likes silence. The comparison with money in this case is quite appropriate: the Brussels club of bankers is located in the building of the embassy which, for 20 years, has been the property of Belarus and, having crossed its threshold, you at once appear on the native land. The Ambassador of Belarus, Andrei Yevdochenko, notes the uncommonness of his mission, “Our diplomatic mission, on the range of questions on which we carry on a dialogue with foreign partners, is an unusual phenomenon in Belarusian diplomatic life.” We begin with that peculiarity of our embassy in Brussels. Ambassador Yevdochenko fairly admits that bilateral Belarusian-Belgian relations do not occupy even half of the working time of employees, who have to divide their attention between mutual relations (not only Belarus-Belgium, but also BelarusLuxemburg), interaction with NATO and the EU (and here our representation in Luxemburg helps us in that, after all the new head of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, was, for 16 years, Prime Minister of Luxemburg, it means not as formal as a duke, but the actual head of this state), and also co-operation with numerous international organizations such as the World Customs Organization, Eurocontrol (the European Organization for the Safety of Air Navigation), the Energy Charter Treaty and many others. Nevertheless, our conversation with Ambassador Yevdochenko begins with bilateral Belarusian-Belgian work — in particular, trade and economic relations. Belarusian exports to Belgium have increased over the last six years by almost double to $198m, and for each embassy it is a good occasion for pride. So what exactly do we deliver to Belgium, what Belarus production is in demand here? If we take the structure of our export, probably, it will be as traditional as for any country of Europe. There is certain

petrochemical production — light products, as we call them: technical lubrications, oils and so on. Naturally, there are deliveries of potash fertilisers. There is a big group of production of woodworking and one specific type of wood deliveries to Belgium is goods with a deep degree of processing delivered here, for example pre-made products like building wooden units, various prefabricated houses, and summer residences. If you go to any specialized shopping centre,

transferred to other, French, dealer, but we are unable to contact him. So it is a question of, not so much the local market, but the side effects of our own marketing policy. Speaking about the possibilities of further trade, economic and especially actual investment co-operation, we should not forget about the economic problems which Belgium experiences today and which inevitably affects the investment activity of its businessmen.

Mission is feasible In Brussels, Belarus actually has three — no four — diplomatic representations: the Embassy in Belgium, two permanent representations (under the EU and NATO), and Belarusian Ambassador Andrei Yevdochenko is accredited as the Ambassador in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. That’s why he is one of four persons, and our embassy, located on the green, silent and prestigious Avenue Moliere, works under special conditions. you will see that many of these products come from Belarus. We deliver synthetic threads and fibres from Mogilevkhimvolokno, linen fabrics. All the Belarusian exporters deliver berries — we have enterprises which produce cowberry, raspberry, currants and other berries in industrial volumes. Three years ago, we decided to start this business, and today, we have deliveries of this production totalling more than 1m Euros. The big item is diamond trading. Belgium is a world centre of this trade, and our Kristall Plant in Gomel works well in this market. Unfortunately, our tractors recently left Belgian market. There was a dealer who would purchase small, but regular volumes. But the problem was that this dealer had to contact representations of MTZ based in Germany, in Dresden. Now, as far as I know, exclusive rights for the Belgian market were

The most serious of them is the huge external debt exceeding 370bln Euros, more than 100 percent of the annual GDP. The country lives with a tight belt and financial expenses are cut down. Small and average enterprises feel, more than others, the consequence of this crisis. Their share in the economic structure of Belgium totals 99 percent. In this connection, Andrey Yevdochenko says, “Now, for example, the big Ford plant is being closed nowadays. The level of taxation for business in Belgium is one of the highest in the world and both real estate and labour are expensive here. Therefore, of course, Belgian companies attentively search worldwide, where it is possible to withdraw capital in order that it is not unused, but works and makes profit. They look to China and Latin America — the most fast-developing and profitable markets. But they also look at the 2014 беларусь.belarus

DIPLOMACY market of the Eurasian Economic Union — Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus. They actively work in Russia; basically these are big petrochemical projects. Though, for example, Solvay, one of the largest companies in Belgium, constructed a plant in Russia and receives part of the components necessary for manufacture from Belarus. We, together with the Belgians, make flax harvesters. After all, what attention in our country is given to the flax-growing branch?”

ducing products of haute couture and high style in small amounts, in order not to create competition for themselves. Belgians win by adapting to the latest requirements of fashion and the highest quality of production. They are aimed at higher group of consumers, who value the exclusivity of their products. Once, we had an idea to follow this way, but as far as I know, but we have not defined our basic strategy in this direction yet. As for flax harvesters, we, together with

Actually, it is convenient to compare Belarus and Belgium. Its population is slightly larger than Belarusian one (11 million citizens). People here grow basically the same agricultural crops as in Belarus. Flax is just one example, though it is not as easy with flax as that. Earlier, Belgium was famous for flax and fabrics derived from it, but nowadays flax is not grown here, because it is considered a capricious crop. And there is also China and other countries of Asia to consider. Since 2005 Chinese textiles have received quota-free, almost unlimited admission to the market of the European Union. And if you add textiles from Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh, then it is clear that the Belgians simply cannot compete with Asian countries. But they corrected their strategy in a timely fashion and stopped production of materials, but became the end-manufacturer, pro-

our Belgian partners, search for entries into the Russian market and we also develop a new joint project - an industrial line for flax processing. I consider it to be a very good direction. Belarus already has three lines of such a type, while the share of localization in them is not less than 30 percent, and it is important.” According to the Ambassador, there are also other interesting projects which can attract Belgian investments: the transformation of Minsk-2 airport into a centre on processing and transhipment of cargo and release of biometric passports. But all of them are at the very first, negotiation stage so therefore, we will withhold details. What is necessary to note is the insufficient work of the National Agency of Investment and Privatization. “We have serious problems with it,” Ambassador Yevdochenko says. “When we dis-

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cuss the theme of foreign investments, we always speak about huge projects — transnational companies with big names. But the lion’s share of enterprises in Europe is small to medium in size and they are basically engaged in high technologies — electronics and biotechnologies, for example. Coming to Belarus, a large company can afford expenses for the preparation of analysis of the Belarusian market with a first-class consulting company to get legal support at a first-class consulting company, these are considerable expenses. But what should we do with small and average businesses which cannot afford such expenses? Belarus does not have an agency which would help and accompany that segment of the market which is interested in such business. And that is all. Therefore, the majority of investments remain outside, including the ones in the sphere of biotechnologies. In Belgium, for example, these are basically small and average companies. Even medicines (Belgium is well-known for its pharmaceuticals) are produced in big volumes by small companies. They have a big pharmaceutical cluster which consists of a number of universities working under scientific laboratories of both small and average companies. And new medicines are created in this conglomerate, which is partially financed by the government. And after the new medicine is created, has passed all tests and received all the necessary certificates, the group which created it is allocated and starts to live as a separate private company, producing this physical medicine. The task is to help experts to create a product which then could be introduced at the market and to allocate experts at the stage of reception of the first profit. The state only gives it a start in life. After that, people work independently. Therefore, I again repeat that I consider that for Belarus it is equally important to attract large, average and small-scale businesses which represent, maybe, the most qualified and technological segment of European business.” By Inessa Pleskachevskaya

WITHOUT VISAS

t is now possible to congratulate the Israeli diplomat since, at the end of September, a longawaited agreement to abolish the visa regime was signed in Minsk. Presumably, the agreement will come into force when all the domestic procedures have been gone through, to facilitate holiday trips for Belarusians and Israelis in the nearest future. The agreement allows for up to 90 days stay every 6 months. As Minsk and Tel Aviv are connected by direct flights, the move is sure to promote tourism. Israel is the 23rd country to which Belarusian citizens can travel without visas. Although the abolition of the visa regime will bring a reduction in revenue for Belarus (since Belarusian visas were priced at approximately quadruple those for Israel) the agreement has many other benefits. Simplification of visa formalities promotes not only tourism but business contacts, inspiring investment and raising the profile of the country internationally. Strategically, the move has far more advantages than disadvantages, especially when it concerns co-operation with such a country as Israel: home to 8 million people and ranked second globally for technologies (its main export). Lacking essential natural resources, the country is a second ‘Silicon Valley’,

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Six hundred years of peace and harmony Several years ago, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Israel to Belarus, H.E. Mr. Yosef Shagal, admitted that the main objective of his diplomatic mission was to abolish visas between our two countries ranked in the top 20 of the human development potential index. Last year, for the first time in history, Israel’s GDP exceeded a trillion Shekels ($300bln). Foreign investments into the economy of Israel are breaking records, last year reaching almost $12bln. As Belarus relies on its knowledge and innovations to generate revenue, co-operation with Israel can only be to its benefit. Meanwhile, Jewish communities lived on Belarusian lands for almost six hundred years — in peace and harmony. Today, more than 120,000 native Belarusians reside in Israel, many enjoying wonderful careers. The first president of this country, the wellknown scientist Chaim Weizmann, was a native of Brest Region, while ex-president Shimon Peres was born in Volozhin District of Minsk Region, and the parents of former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon also hailed from Belarus. Israeli businessmen are interested in co-operation in the sphere of medicine, having the highest world indicator in treating oncology — thanks to the equipment for early diagnosis of tumours. Not long ago, Israeli scientists found a way to diagnose cancers from simple blood analysis. Additionally, considerable Israeli investments are directed towards property construction (such as those

conducted by the Fishman Group). Such co-operation is mutually advantageous and will, no doubt, be encouraged by the visa-free regime. The Israeli Ambassador to Belarus is often asked how it is that Israel’s agricultural success is the best in the world, despite being 80 percent covered in sand. His answer is that the first farmers arrived from Belarus, bringing their expertise! The lifeless desert has become a blossoming oasis of vegetables, fruits and magnificent roses (exported to Europe). Belarus is already applying Israeli technologies to its agrarian sphere, cultivating African catfish in Brest Region, and organizing pig-breeding and poultry-farming. Yosef Shagal explains, “Our technologically is perfect for Belarusian agriculture, because you have huge possibilities. Everything that we grow and produce does so contrary to the laws of nature, while God gave Belarus more favourable conditions: woods, pure air and rich soil. That’s why your products taste so natural. If you use modern technologies, you can market them at competitive prices. In all respects, Belarus has the chance to enter the top-ten of world food suppliers. Food is essential to our future well-being. We may find alternatives to oil, but never food. Strategically, Belarus is focused correctly.” By Yevgeny Kononovich

2014 беларусь.belarus

Panorama  The statistics window In Belarus there are 1,054 boys for every 1,000 girls at the age of 14, but by the age of 30, this drops to 1027

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ccording to data from the National Statistical Committee, the correlation of men and women at various ages differs greatly. At 14 years old there are 1,054 boys for every 1,000 girls, but by the age of 30, this has dropped to 1,027. The most numerous age group among youth in the country is people between 25-30 years. At the beginning of the year, this was 940,000 people, or 43 percent of the total number of youth. Young men aged 20-24 years make 30.7 percent of youth structure. At the age of 18-19 years it’s 9.6 percent and at the 14-17 years — 16.7 percent.

Age is no obstacle to enjoying life Number of elderly people in Belarus has increased over last decade

hose aged 60 and beyond account for 19.9 percent of the population of Belarus at present: 1,879,900 people. At the beginning of the year, there were 1,224,600 women classed as ‘elderly’, against just 655,300 men. The figure has not changed greatly since 2005, when there were 1,870 elderly women per thousand elderly men; today, the figure stands at 1,869 women. The trend is for the population to live longer: the UN definitions categorize a population as ‘old’ if there are at least 7 percent of people aged 65 years or

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more. In Belarus, at the beginning of 2014, the share of ‘elderly’ reached 13.9 percent. Employment and social protection bodies registered 2,549,600 pensioners this August, with 2,084,200 receiving various pensions based on their age. Aged 60 and beyond, 1,796,400 people were receiving retirement pensions; of these, 291,300 also chose to continue working. Just 522 people aged 100 years or older were receiving pensions: 495 women and 57 men. Age is no obstacle to marriage, with 684 weddings taking place in 2013 where both spouses were aged at least 60; the figure rose significantly last year, with 896 women of elderly age marrying and 1,433 elderly men becoming grooms. The International Day of Older Persons has been celebrated annually, on October 1st, since 1991 — initiated by the General Assembly of the United Nations Organization.

Age groups among the youth in the country:

20-24 25-30 18-19 14-17 Last year, 64,996 women and 58,308 men, aged 14 to 31, entered into marriage. Among youth, women mainly entered into marriage at the age of 20-24 years (51.4 percent) while the young men created families at the age of 25-30 years (55 percent). According to statistical data, in 2013, women between 14 to 31 gave birth to 86,468 children (73.3 percent from total number of new-borns), from them, first-borns accounted for more than half (58 percent), second children made 34.3 percent and third-born — 6.3 percent, fourth or higher was 1.4 percent. As of January, 1st of this year, 2,185,000 people aged between 14 to 31 years lived in the Republic. Every fourth citizen of the republic belongs in the category ‘youth’. 83 percent of Belarusian youth live in cities and 16.8 in the countryside. The greatest number of young people living in villages is in Minsk Region, with 116,000 people, or 31.6 percent.

ROADS

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Logical chain established Conversations about the need to unload the operating Minsk ring road were held five years ago. The road has almost reached its limit of traffic capacity. In peak days, traffic exceeds 120,000 vehicles a day...

he new ring road is designed to lower the ecological load on Minsk and to raise transit attractiveness of the country. The decision on its construction was made in 2010. Excavations started, but crisis nearly spelled the death of this project. At the beginning of this year the President gave instructions to continue the construction and recently decided to personally visit the construction site near the village of Vishnevka in Minsk Region. The first metres of the new highway please the eye. An ideally smooth monolithic surface — it is possible to land a plane here. The width of road

bed is almost 23 metres, with two lanes in each direction. The feature of the second ring road is that during construction the workers are using a modern technology of laying of the cementconcrete covering. Its advantages over usual asphalt are obvious to experts. And soon drivers will feel the difference. The warranty period of operation of the concrete road is 25 years, while an asphalt covering is estimated at 5-8 years. Besides, concrete roads are capable of sustaining considerably heavier loads that certainly will be estimated by long-distance truck drivers. But these are those pluses which, as it is said, lie on the surface. Another benefit is also that for roads with a concrete covering, we have a lot of own raw materials

while for asphalt we would need bitumen produced from expensive imported oil. And it becomes more difficult to receive it because our oil-refineries are constantly increasing the depth of oil refining. That is, using modern technology, we save currency resources, we load our cement works, we construct better roads and, as a result, we raise the transit attractiveness of the country, Alexander Lukashenko has built a logical chain. Now the matter depends on the road builders. Construction of the second ring road is in two stages. The first, 46 kilometres long site, will connect highway М3 Minsk-Vitebsk near Ostroshitsky Gorodok with highway М6/Е 28 Minsk-Grodno (near Aksa2014 беларусь.belarus

MOMENTOUS EVENT kovshchina). The second stage provides construction of a 42-kilometre from highway М6/Е 28 Minsk-Grodno to highway М1/Е 30 Brest-Minskborder of Russia. The general length of a new ring road will total about 160 kilometres. This year, road workers planned to lay the cement-concrete covering on 3.5 kilometres of road. However, the President is categorically dissatisfied with such a rate. Having listened to the explanations of experts which referred to the fast approach of the cold weather, limitation in financial assets and other factors, Alexander Lukashenko announced his decision, “By January, 1st, 2017 the ring road should be ready!” And, addressing to the Director of Belgiprodor, Oleg Pigunov, he added, “When the construction is finished, you will invite me here, we will open a bottle of champagne and see the New Year in.” Thus, the President demanded from the designers and builders fewer experiments with earth moving. There should not be excessiveness and unreasonable financial expenditures. The state control committee is obliged to check the real cost of work at the building stage, instead of after its end. Today, it is already obvious that the decision made in due time on the transition to scale construction of roads with concrete covering was correct and very timely, taking into account that volume of works, which are to be fulfilled under the programme of reconstruction and construction of republican highways. Alexander Lukashenko especially specified the importance of transit directions, in particular, on the highway to Polotsk and the highway connecting Gomel and Brest. One more instruction of the President concerned the possible increase of the authorized speed limit on the operating Minsk ring road to 120 kilometres per hour. The Ministry of Transport and Communications should think it over in the near future.

New horizons for the development of biotechnology The Centre of Analytical and Genetic Engineering Research — one of the departments of the future BelBioGrad — has begun its work at the Institute of Microbiology at the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus

t is an important event, opening new horizons for the development of biotechnologies in our country. It is important that this field is capable of resisting the total chemicalisation of the environment. Considering that about 20 percent of the population of the developed states already suffer from allergies and the WHO calls to move away from preponderance of pesticides and antibiotics in agriculture, it is the most important task. And here we have own groundwork. The EurAsEC is already thinking of outlawing antibiotics in the sphere of stockbreeding, but then there arises a question: what will replace them? The Institute of Microbiology can offer ready recipes: five probiotics items were developed. There is also an alternative to pesticides — a means of biological control. Preparations for clearing of air, water, soil and many other things are being developed. While all of them are practical results of biotechnologies claimed also in medicine, nature protection activity, bioenergetics, and light and food-processing industry and promoting gradual transition to a new level — bioeconomy. It is necessary to say that last year, our biotechnological branch issued production of Br7 trillion, while part of production was delivered for export. Volumes grow, and the big merit in it belongs to the scientifically-practical association of Chemical Synthesis and Biotechnologies which includes Institute of Microbiology.

According to the estimations of the Director of the Institute, corresponding member of the NAS, Emilia Kolomiets, new Centre of Analytical and Genetic Engineering Research will help scientists work at a level of which it was possible only to dream. The equipment is advanced, with chromatograph (gas and high-efficiency liquid), sequenators and DNA amplifiers, where results can be received in real time, and many other things. Generally speaking, the institute now creates the whole chain; starting from molecular biology to industrial production. At the end of 2009 the Biotechnological centre was created and even at a small capacity it annually produces 30 tonnes of preparations, the work is carried out in three changes and the enterprise has already produced Br31bn of production and 50 new biotechnologies are mastered. These figures are impressive. Emilia Kolomiets is sure that it will be with preparations developed at our institute that our agriculture and other branches will learn what biotechnologies are and what are they capable of. However, without modernization and a modern approach today, it is impossible to hold out in the market. So the creation of the centre is the necessary next stage. Its equipment will allow receipt high level ferment preparations, probiotics with antivirus and antimicrobic activity preparations, strains for the manufacture of lactic acid and biobutnol (the biofuel of the next generation). By Yulia Vasilina

By Yevgeny Konev

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Fellow compatriots

Yatskovshchina — San Francisco — Yatskovshchina

Those descended from old man Pavlyuk, from a small Belarusian village located remotely on the border between the districts of Lyakhovichi (Brest Region) and Kletsk (Minsk Region) are now scattered far and wide, but still return often to the land of their forebears

t the end of the last millennium, our thoughts turned to the passing of time. Just as people’s life is of a limited span, settlements too often have their allotted years. Many Belarusian villages have ceased to exist, including my native home Yatskovshchina, which was home to 30 families just 15 years ago. Old man Pavlyuk was its most respected inhabitant, being of great age. Meanwhile, the remains of Dubniki — a century-old oak grove — were found near the village.

A lilac bush used to grow near my grandparents’ house, until the fateful summer of 1959, when a lightning strike ignited six homes in the village. That of my grandparents, Yuzik Frantsevich and Eva Andreevna, was among them that Sunday, the Feast of the Ascension. The dry, windy weather helped the flames spread quickly, so that nearly everyone’s possessions were lost. My parents had time only to save my brother, aged 2, in his pram, a tablecloth and a glass ashtray! The lilac bush seemed scorched to nothing yet, the following spring, new shoots appeared, and it grew anew. A different,

open field was allocated for rebuilding, and wood was donated from a local collective farm, to construct replacement cottages. Yatskovshchina’s new homes were established near the old road from Lyakhovichi to Kletsk and I was born one year later. Meanwhile, the old site was used for the railway line connecting Baranovichi to Slutsk. These days there is neither old man Pavlyuk; nor is Dubniki or the ‘magical’ lilac bush. In 1998 I wrote a short, melancholy article about him, called Old Man and Oaks, for Belarus magazine, which was republished by the Lyakhovichi Bulletin (issue 11). The text read: 2014 беларусь.belarus

Fellow compatriots ‘He often looks out over the village, and the pasture, as the sun sets in the evenings. There, of once great Dubniki, there remain just a few oaks’. I remember taking a photograph of a sinewy old man in his shabby cap, studiously raking up dried hay near some old cherry trees. At that time, he was already over 90. His daughter, Marusya, told me that the menfolk of his family had served as guardsmen in St. Petersburg’s imperial palace, before the 1917 Revolution, being tall and strong. I marvelled at what the man had seen in his lifetime, surviving revolution, war and collectivisation. His family ran a mill, continuing through the changes of power. He was born in 1903, according to official documents (although he believed his date of birth to be December 28th, 1898). At that time, Yatskovshchina was part of imperial Russia. The ‘first Councils’ came, then the Germans (during t he First World War). The Soviet invasion of Poland (March 1921 to September 17th, 1939) was followed by ‘the second Councils’, Fascist occupation and ‘the third Councils’ (the village was liberated in July, 1944). Old man Pavel came through Gorbachev’s Perestroika (reorganization) and died in 2000, in our independent Republic of Belarus: ‘officially’ 97 years old, he was buried near his wife in the cemetery near the village of Gulichi. I recently received a letter marked ‘Roots and Leaves’ — from Alexey Zhdanovich, currently living in San Francisco. We have never met, but he remembers my father from his youth. I knew that Pavlyuk’s younger son had ‘married a Georgian, and moved to Tbilisi’ and that ‘even guests from America come to see Marusya’; she would laughingly беларусь.belarus 2014

In the XXIst century the most prominent features of a small village Yatskovshchina from the past times were the following: old man Pavlyuk called Centurial for his great age and the remains of Dubniki — a century-old oak grave

recollect their appetite for her draniki and potato babka. Her husband, Sasha, would arrange a summer shower for guests, using an electro-boiler to heat a barrel of water every morning. I reproduce his letter here unchanged. Incidentally, Zhdanovich is a common surname in Yatskovshchina: nearly eight families shared it. It’s good to know that even when people move away from Belarus, they take their name with them — and their connection to their home settlement.

‘Roots and Leaves’

Hello! A while back in Belarus magazine there was a small photo-sketch of Ivan Zhdanovich, taken in his native village of Yatskovshchina, in Brest Region. It shows a century-old oak grove and its contemporary: old man Pavel Zhdanovich. I am his younger son, Alexey. Almost 60 years ago, immediately after finishing secondary school in Zherebkovichi, I left my native home. At first I studied and, then, worked: in Kiev, Poltava, and Tbilisi. For the last 15 years, since retiring, I’ve lived in the USA, in San Francisco — as my daughter Masha married and moved here. However, in the years before the collapse of the USSR, I visited my parents annually, so the ties with my native home were not lost. Years passed, and I again

visited it with my grandsons Savva and Alexander: aged 9 and 4 years. Unfortunately, people, like oaks, are not Egyptian pyramids: we are all subject to the power of passing time. My father and grandfather (both Pavlyuk) have died and the giant oaks have fallen. Reclamation works had been conducted near Yatskovshchina. I am saddened that the former site of my native Dubniki — small but picturesque and cosy, where the sun would set so beautifully — is now an open field. Old Yatskovshchina has 5-6 near-derelict houses. However, there’s no sense in grieving, since such things happen everywhere: the impetuous flight of time and ruthless industrial-agrarianism are the cause.

Fellow compatriots I write as if in acceptance but my heart disagrees, recalling the thin green shoots of young oak saplings pushing through each spring, where the former grove stood, turning to the eternal Sun. Raised by the vital sap of powerful roots, alive yet in the depths of the earth, they bring to mind the roots of people, which reach out, from wherever they may reside. Old man Pavel and his wife, kindly Kotra-Yekaterina, did not utterly disappear into mute non-existence. To my great surprise and happiness, their descendants are alive and kicking! My favourite grandsons, despite being born American, responded to Yatskovshchina from the first moment they arrived on the soil inhabited by their grandfathers and great-grandfathers. They ‘opened their own America’ in my Yatskovshchina! Savva and Alexander took up the natural, strong link: the continuum over the centuries, connecting dozens of good people to this charming little village and to God. Oh, how spellbound they were, and with what pleasure they rushed about, kicking off their smart city shoes, running on the soft grass and in the dust of the rural street! Looking at my grandsons, I could not help but return to my own distant, barefoot childhood, and mused on the long chain of generations of Yatskovshchina child residents: those who lived before me and came after me... It would be wonderful to believe that this thread of time will never end. We were hospitably received into my sister Marusya’s home, with her husband Alexander. Our ‘American special mission’ also partially lodged in an empty neighbouring house that remains without owners. I was surprised by how easily Savva and Alexander took delight in the slow, measured rhythm of rural life. They were fascinated by simple household utensils, the living creatures round about, and other things which create the Grandfather’s Pavlyuk grandson Savva with the Dalai Lama

unique spirit of Yatskovshchina: this village of my childhood and youth, which is slowly fading, as is the rural way of life itself. These newly made ‘foreign rural boys’ felt comfortable in Yatskovshchina, as is seen on their faces in the photos. Savva and Alexander are typical, modern American children: globalized, urban-

I believe that contact with the earth trodden by our ancestors has inspired my elder grandson Savva, inducing him to attend a special school with a bias towards Buddhist philosophy. A nostalgic spiritual need has awoken in his soul, seeking understanding of good and evil, compassion and hate, fanaticism and tolerance. My grandson wants

Unforgettable moments of stay in Yatskovshchina at the land of ancestors, guests from California are in the photos. But everything they encountered in these beautiful places remains in their memory and each year invites to Belarusian province.

iszed and computerized. In my opinion, they are too ‘galvanized’ by virtual games, puzzles, mad speeds, vehicles and special effects: all blessings and curses of modern civilisation. The fact that they embraced all that was the opposite is a riddle and a miracle. What lightning bolt hit them? Simply, certain mysticism: the great secret of the human soul. One thing is clear: they found themselves — without lectures from philosophers, politologists, moralists or nationalists. They felt themselves to be natives of Yatskovshchina, without knowing the national-language, wearing embroidered shirts, or having spun yarn on wheels: all differed from their life in a city apartment. Why am I writing to your editorial office? To share my happiness. When, this year, our whole family made plans again for summer travel, my now adult grandsons chose our destination without hesitation: Belarus and Yatskovshchina. They could visit more attractive and popular places, but have opened themselves to their distant ancestors’ native land, now so close to them.

to understand the values that raise nations over the division of race, religion or sect: all that prevents us from being simply people — children of our beautiful Mother Earth. For his exemplary following of humanitarian principles, Savva had the great honour of welcoming the Buddhist spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, when he visited San Francisco in February, 2014. My younger grandson, most likely, will follow in his brother’s footsteps. There’s no doubt that the patrimonial branch of grandfather Pavlyuk is thriving in American San Francisco, bringing together Belarus’ legacy of amazing pagan holidays, strong Christian traditions and Yatskovshchina (which is close to God in its simplicity) and exotic Tibet! I feel confident that their great-grandfather Pavlyuk (a true peasant philosopher, borne of the land, which has been Christian for many generations) would understand his American descendants. He would bless Savva and Alexander for their devotion to the Eternal Temple of Goodness and Truth. With deep respect Alexey Pavlovich Zhdanovich The USA, San Francisco, 2014 2014 беларусь.belarus

Fellow compatriots

rom the style of the letter, it’s clear that it’s written by someone who loves his native land. Also, his grandsons certainly have sensitive souls, appreciating tranquil Yatskovshchina, and preferring it over the Internet social networks and shooting games. Mr. Pavlovich didn’t mention whether other descendants of grandfather Pavlyuk feel similar strong ties; we planned to talk about this in the summer, in Yatskovshchina, but circumstances prevented the San Francisco clan from visiting Belarus this year. At my request, Alexey and his daughter Masha sent an e-mail giving additional information on the family. Prof. Mikhail Zhdanovich, the elder son of grandfather Pavlyuk, has been working as a teacher at the Kiev Institute беларусь.belarus 2014

of Civil Aircraft Engineering since the 1970s (now, the National Aviation University). He continues to lecture, despite celebrating his 80th birthday in November. His influence seems likely to have inspired others from Yatskovshchina, particularly regarding employment in aviation. His second cousin, Igor Zhdanovich, now works in Gomel, Mikhail Gaspadynich is employed in Minsk, and Yuri Kruglik has a job in Kiev. I remember meeting him in the 1970s, when I was driving a combine harvester with my father, near Yatskovshchina. He approached us, offering his greeting, and my father took the opportunity to bid me to study hard, so that I too might ‘elevate’ myself above ‘swallowing the dust’. The elder son of Kiev professor Zhdanovich, Andrey, worked as a flight-engineer for Yakutia Airlines for a long time but has worked in Moscow for the past decade, as a co-pilot on Boeing 747: on such routes as Shanghai and Hong Kong, Chicago and Los Angeles. This March Andrey visited his uncle Alexey, alongside his aunt and cousin Kirill in San Francisco. The professor named his younger son Pavel (probably, in honour of grandfather Pavlyuk). Alexey writes that Pavel is a real prodigy, having graduated from Moscow’s elite Institute of Physics and Technology — before the collapse of the USSR. He returned to Kiev and created a computer company, called Softprom, engaged in software development. Its annual turnover is about $10-15 million, and it has

branches and customers in Minsk, Astana, Tbilisi, Moscow, Vienna and Los Angeles. Pavel often goes on business trips to the USA and visits his family there, but lives ‘between Kiev and Vienna’. Vasily Zhdanovich, the second son of grandfather Pavlyuk, stayed in Belarus, working as a driver, while his wife has employment in a collective-farm office. It was he who delivered grain from our combine harvester to the grain storage warehouse at the ‘Belarus’ collective farm one year. My father was on friendly terms with his uncle, Vasily (nicknamed Dlinnyi — meaning long — due to his great height). After work the men would sit, chat and have a drink. Both are dead now. After Vasily Pavlovich’s death the tie with his descendants weakened. Svetlana and Sergey, his children, gained higher education and moved to Minsk. Maria, the youngest of Pavlyuk and Katerina’s children, is their only daughter. She studied in Kiev and worked there for a long time, then returned with her family to Belarus to be closer to her parents. She now lives with her Ukrainian husband in Yatskovshchina. Their elder son, Sergey, graduated from the National Aviation University, and lives and works in Kiev. His wife writes poetry, and their sons, Fiodor and Stepan, are still at school. Maria’s second son, Mikhail, graduated from the military college and works in Kletsk, near his parents. Alexey tells me that he has only one daughter, Maria, who graduated with distinction from Tbilisi State University, and the School of International Business in Los Angeles. She now divides her time between bringing up her two sons and working part-time. Impressively, her husband is a neurosurgeon. All three sons of grandfather Pavlyuk and Kotra — Mikhail, Vasily and Alexey - have enjoyed success, weathering life, like strong oaks. Meanwhile, Maria is wending through life with dignity. The Zhdanovich family, from Yatskovshchina, now reside in San Francisco, Minsk, Kiev, Moscow and Kletsk. Who knows, perhaps some may even live one day in celestial Tibet... By Ivan Zhdanovich

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Not by bread alone... 22

2014 беларусь.belarus

Nadezhda Ponkratova, Vadim Kondrashov

Culture as a Style of Life

In 1998 a tradition was born: every year, Belarus celebrates the Culture Worker Day on the second Sunday of October. This time, over 65,000 Belarusian writers, poets, artistes, painters, singers, musicians, museum and gallery workers, librarians and heads of artistic teams have celebrated their professional holiday.

n opinion exists that a person’s evolutionary task is to transform himself — through world outlook and selfstudy. This path is cultural, which is really so. Through culture, people would get acquainted with the best angles of the world, while studying what is admissible or not on the basis of the best cultural examples. Moreover, they would find solutions to what should be done to improve our surroundings. In this respect, the Belarusian President’s speech at the ‘For Spiritual Revival’ Award ceremony (honouring figures of culture and arts) comes to mind. He then voiced some vital ideas of culture which define the lifestyle of a person and the society in general. Mr. Lukashenko then said, “For many centuries, philosophers have been arguing on what is primary: matter or spirit, the sublime or carnal. While looking at all those present today in this hall — those who represent the cream of our Belarusian clerisy — I’m unconsciously searching for an answer to this eternal question. No doubt, the humankind would not exist without the material welfare but each of us possesses something which could hardly be described in words: this is a divine spark, a spiritual flame which makes us беларусь.belarus 2014

think, feel, love, suffer, dare and act. The man does not live by bread alone. Even strong ancient empires ruined and died if lost their people-uniting ideals, morale and faith which turn people into a nation and a place of residence into the Motherland… Our spirituality, art and culture are a blood system of the society responsible for the vitality. The state realizes this and, accordingly, did, is doing and will do everything possible to multiply this greatest achievement — to ensure that each talent comes to light and no artistic impulsion dies.” These words best of all confirm that the sphere of culture embraces not merely clubs and entertaining facilities (in their primitive understanding) but the nation’s spiritual and intellectual potential and the eternal preservation of its richest heritage. The Belarusian culture is unique and its styles, forms and trends are diverse. It’s rooted in the pre-Christian, pagan epoch, being formed through centuries. Our forefathers — like all Eastern-Slavonic tribes — were pagans. This form of religious consciousness existed for a long time, leaving a deep trace in the culture. Original architectural and arts schools operated in the Belarusian territory and unique musical and literary masterpieces were created. All of them are now state protected, being kept at the major Belarusian museums and libraries. Classical Belarusian musicales

and drama pieces are staged at the theatres and performed at the concert halls. Really, Belarus’ modern cultural life is interesting and accessible for Belarusians and guests alike. The Belarusian fine arts differ in genres, styles and trends and the best pictorial and sculptural works are kept at the country’s national museums, with the National Art Museum boasting the largest collection. It actively promotes our national art and regularly hosts exhibitions by Belarusian painters. The Vitebsk Art Museum, the Mogilev Regional Art Museum and the Polotsk Art Gallery also keep interesting collections. In addition, all district centres run their own art galleries, featuring pictures drawn by Belarusian artists. The country’s musical art also strives to preserve its national traditions, while simultaneously developing popular modern styles and trends. Pieces by Belarusian composers, global classical and pop music are performed by professional and amateur musicians. Many musical bands of the country enjoy popularity; among them are the Presidential Orchestra of Belarus, Mikhail Finberg’s National Orchestra of Symphonic and Pop Music, the State Academic Symphony Orchestra, the State Academic Choir Capella (named after G. Shirma), the Chisty Golos vocal band, and the Syabry and Pesnyary vocal-instrumental

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Culture as a Style of Life

attracting cinematographers from abroad, are realized in Belarus: Nikita Mikhalkov, Piotr and Valery Todorovskys, Dmitry Astrakhan and Alexander Sokurov directed their films at the Belarusfilm Studio. The arrival of Emir Kusturica is anticipated; the director is to shot a film on Belarusian partisans. Festivals are also held and the public especially appreciates the Listapad Minsk International Film Festival and the Listapadzik Contest for Children and Young People.

”

Alexander Lukashenko: Our spirituality, art and culture are a blood system of the society responsible for the vitality. The state realizes this and, accordingly, did, is doing and will do everything possible to multiply this greatest achievement to ensure that each talent comes to light and no artistic impulsion dies

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ensembles. Not long ago, the Maxim Gorky National Academic Drama Theatre successfully premiered the performance dedicated to the memory of Pesnyary’s founder and permanent head — Vladimir Mulyavin; the show was staged by an Honoured Figure of Arts, Valentina Yerenkova, on the basis of Vasily Dranko-Maisyuk’s play. Belarus hosts diverse festivals, representing all sorts of genres and musical trends. The International Slavianski Bazaar in Vitebsk Arts Festival is a symbol of the country’s festival movement; it attracts popular artists from all over the world. Belarus’ professional theatre has developed from ancient folk traditions, artistry, wandering actors, court troupes of Belarusian magnates and amateur teams. At present, 28 state theatres and numerous amateur troups operate in the country — including puppet, drama and musical theatres. The National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre is most widely known; its performances have conquered hearts of domestic and foreign theatre lovers. Belarus’ theatrical life is rich in bright festival events, including prestigious theatrical festivals gathering troupes from all over the globe. Among them are the Belaya Vezha International Theatrical Festival (held in Brest), the Panorama International Festival of Theatrical Art (Minsk), the Teart International Forum of Theatrical Art (Minsk) and some other forums. Cinema art is also developing quite successfully in the country. While continuing traditions of the past generations, our modern Belarusian cinema is searching for new paths of development. Our domestic films win awards at prestigious festivals: In the Fog — directed by Sergey Loznitsa and shot by an international team on the basis of Vasil Bykov’s novel — won a special prize of the FIPRESCI International Film Press Federation at the 2002 Cannes Festival. Moreover, many joint film projects,

The Belarusian literature is known owing to its famous writers and poets: Simeon Polotsky, Yanka Kupala, Yakub Kolas, Maxim Bogdanovich and Vasil Bykov. Meanwhile, our modern Belarusian literature is represented by many young writers who are in search of their style and readers. New genres are being mastered and Belarus annually hosts the Day of the Belarusian Written Language. The concept of this holiday focuses on the reflection of a historical path of the Belarusian written language and printed media as well as the development of modern Belaru-

sian literature and culture. In 2006 a new building of the National Library welcomed its readers; it boasts a unique — diamond-shaped — architectural solution and is an object of Belarusians’ national pride. The Belarusian culture is the national history. Crafts of our folk masters take their roots in the past and, while continuing the traditions of our forefathers, it’s possible to get acquainted with their lifestyle and even plunge into the Medieval Ages. Meanwhile, new crafts are also spreading, such as bead weaving and making articles from modern materials. Our Belarusian folk crafts are known globally; these are popular wood cutting, ceramics, straw encrustation, weaving and embossment. Individuals and teams are involved into folk crafts; the latter are united by workshops which operate even in small towns. Their works are shown to public during holidays and are exhibited at the fairs and museums. The country also hosts culinary festivals and our Motol Delicacies is already an international forum. It aims to revive culinary traditions of Belarusian Polesie. Really, culture is a complicated and many-grade system; over two hundred definitions exist. However, although the latter could be really correct and universal, it’s well recognized that culture could not exist outside the man. As ancient philosopher Democritus believed, culture is another nature. Meanwhile, Jean-Paul Charles Aymard Sartre said that culture is a handiwork in which people are searching for their reflection. In his view, a person could recognize himself in culture, being able to distinguish his true face in this critical mirror. As it’s known, people’s creativity could differ and it’s not always comes as a part of true culture. Accordingly, a system is needed to regulate each form of the culture-related human activity. Moreover, not only rights but also ob2014 беларусь.belarus

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ligations are needed for those who are involved into a cultural process. Legal acts in the field of culture already operate, in addition to the Culture Ministry which aims to protect the spiritual and intellectual national sovereignty. This agency aims to initiate and promote the best public ideas, contributing to accepting the cultural example which would strengthen our country and ensure it would not be lost in the course of time, preserving its heroic character and sacred legacy of our forefathers. With this in view, our Culture Ministry supported the trend of a collective idea generation and, in January 2012, proposed a draft concept of the Culture Code for a public discussion (to be finished in 2015). No document of the kind exists worldwide but Belarus plans to unite all legal acts in the field of culture which are operational in the беларусь.belarus 2014

country. As the First Deputy Culture Minister, Irina Driga, explains, this experience would become a great contribution into Belarusian and global culture-related legislation. In 2015, several interesting cultural projects are planned. As part of the celebrations devoted to the 70th anniversary of the Great Victory, a large scale project — Choir Assembly — would gather Belarusian and foreign teams. In turn, the National Art Museum is launching a global project: the establishment of a museum quarter. The Castles of Belarus programme will continue, focusing on Grodno, Krevo, Novogrudok and Olshany castles. In addition, Polotsk’s 12th century Transfiguration Church’s frescoes will be restored. Moreover, a Centre of Contemporary Arts is supposed to open in Belarus next year (centres of the kind al-

ready operate in Russian and Europe), aiming to support modern artistic trends. Events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Vitebsk’s famous UNOVIS (founded by Chagall and Malevich) will be prepared. In addition, the National Belarusfilm Studio will be restored in 2015 to become a Europestyle modern complex. All these projects are run by people with pure feelings, emotions, skills and abilities. The latter are also important elements of culture which embrace our spiritual life and outline its style. If we are able to manage our own inner world, to control ourselves and enjoy new events, then the style of our action would please those who surround us. This style would be then special and unique, having nothing in common with artificial smiles. By Mikhalina Cherkashina

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Culture as a Style of Life

ovich Ivan Zhdan

‘I’m Grateful to My Fate’

Famous scientist in the sphere of computer science and information technologies, an academician and a laureate of numerous awards belongs to those personalities with whom it’s very easy to discuss any topic. Really, Sergei Vladimirovich is a person of culture: which derives from Latin ‘cultivation’, ‘upbringing’, ‘development’, ‘honouring’ and ‘education’. Meanwhile, it’s known that education and upbringing also presuppose the mastery of culture and the process of sharing it across generations. Of course, culture exists only in relation to people, being borne of our imagination. 2014 беларусь.belarus

s Mr. Ablameiko says: ‘The ratings and reputation of a university (whose g row t h i s c on nected with that of innovative educational processes) influence the wider culture of science and education’. With this in mind, we have decided to feature the BSU Rector interview under this issue’s topic, familiarising our readers with he who oversees the country’s leading university. In our interview, we tackled many issues, including the path chosen by the Belarusian scientist, born in the USSR. At the age of 28 he defended his Master’s thesis and, by 34 was a Doctor of Sciences. A year later he was an acknowledged scientist in the Soviet Union. Interestingly, he received four of his diplomas (Candidate of Sciences, Senior Scientific Researcher, Doctor of Sciences and Professor) in the USSR. At that time, the whole globe respected Soviet diplomas. In 2002 he was appointed General Director of the United Institute of Informatics, governing a large staff. In 2009 he received the major scientific title of academician. Mr. Ablameiko is grateful to all those who taught him and who have helped him achieve his successes since. He tries to learn something from every experience and meeting, evolving as a result. As he wrote in his book Life of Cybernetics: ‘In July [2009], the President of Belarus — Alexander Lukashenko — solemnly handed diplomas to new members of the Academy. This was the end of a long [scientific] path of 30 years: challenging yet fascinating. Nevertheless, I realized that everything was beginning anew. I had been working at the University [since 2008] and faced numerous worries but my life was now set to continue at a new pace…’ As Mr. Ablameiko mentions in his book, he was happy to contribute to military projects, learning more about беларусь.belarus 2014

Soviet defensive science. He developed digital maps for guiding air-supported missiles and technologies used in the domestic space science. Interestingly, he tells us that it’s likely that much of the technology used in modern smartphones, photo cameras, computers and tablets was developed at Minsk’s Institue of Technical Cybernetics at the Academy of Sciences of the Belarusian SSR. Many developments by Belarusian scientists were openly published in specialized editions, allowing free access by anyone involved in gadget engineering.

Are you pleased with the result of the QS rating? Upon what is it based? Of course, I’m delighted, as this rating is one of the most authoritative ratings worldwide. I’m so pleased that the University’s international reputation is growing and I hope this will lead to increased interest among foreign students towards our University. Last year, we enrolled a record number of BSU students: 1,152. Two years ago, the Education Ministry allowed EurAsEC citizens to apply on the same terms as foreigners, an increasing number of youngsters

World University Ratings — prepared by famous British QS agency — name the Belarusian State University (headed by Rector Sergei Ablameiko) among the world’s top 500 He notes that administrative work takes 95 percent of his time but he has no regrets about taking the post of Rector. Moreover, he often writes scientific articles (over 150 published in English in international magazines and for international conferences). As a scientist and lecturer, Mr. Ablameiko has always liaised widely abroad, including with Japan, Italy, Spain, Greece, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, the USA and the UK. Mr. Ablameiko, what does the ‘culture’ of education mean to you? In short, education is the process of sharing accumulated knowledge and cultural values. Culture is the flesh and blood of education — determining its structure, the logistics of teaching and the strategy of organization of educational process. The same could be applied to science. The arts envisage the use of imagination while science presupposes conceptual thinking; there’s no doubt that the latter shapes the culture of human development.

are applying from such states as Russia, Kazakhstan and elsewhere. The rating has caused a stir. It’s based on analysis of data from our own establishment, as well as from polls of experts and employees (including the citation index of scientific works by the scientists from the past five years). It incorporates the ratio of lecturers to students and the number of foreign students and teachers. How are you attracting attention to the University? Time dictates different approaches towards modernization of the education system under the conditions of the society informatisation. In other words, we need to aim to enter the world education space. This is connected not only with online placement of our employees’ scientific publications, but also educational courses, seminars, lectures and programmes. Everything a university offers should be advertised on the Internet, since modern youngsters assess us through this source. With this in mind, every lecturer must have an e-portfolio.

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Culture as a Style of Life dents’ paperwork. This is logical but, on the other hand, it’s also subjective. The centralized testing system is not a Belarusian ‘invention’, as the whole globe is moving towards written tests. However, the latter also has disadvantages. Pupils who demonstrate stable progress at school rarely fail their centralized testing (especially as there is continuous testing through the aca-

How do we compare against other countries as regards the system of university education? The Bologna Process envisages two stages of education (the first and the second). Last year, we shifted from five year education to four year studies (although not all specialties). Meanwhile, it doesn’t matter how long education lasts. Such peculiarity as an individual

Yes, young people are smart. I lecture the 3rd and the 4th year students, at the Applied Mathematics and Computer Science Faculty. Whatever they are asked, they know everything; they are inquisitive and curious. Moreover, they accept all information easily and it’s a pleasure to communicate and work with them. Teachers no longer personally take part in the entrance campaign of students, who are enrolled via the results of the centralized testing. How do you assess this system? Every system has its advantages and disadvantages. Experienced teachers dislike this system, preferring to look into people’s eyes and check future stu-

demic year at schools). Generally, the system allows us to adequately assess the basic level of school graduates’ knowledge of various subjects. Usually all well-prepared alumni do well during the tests. Of course, rare exceptions occur, when someone suffers from nerves, for example. I’d never agree with the widespread idea that modern youngsters are ‘weaker’ academically. I can only agree that some subjects of the school curriculum are taught, figuratively speaking, ‘optionally’. The tendency is easily explainable, as people now need to know much: foreign languages, IT, network technologies and artificial intelligence…

trajectory is also common: students might study for a decade or longer. Over ten years ago, the western universities shifted to the ‘4+2’ system; its other system is ‘3+2’ (Bachelor’s degree and post-graduate studies). In winter, the BSU was visited by the Open British University Rector who lamented their system, which offers just 19 hours of focused study each week: three hours a day if shared across six days. The BSU currently offers around 25. Even this figure is far from 19! What kind of specialists can be trained in three years? The West relies on self-education: it’s a good aspect but what then is the purpose of a university?

Ivan Zhdanovich

Of course, I understand that it’s not easy to prepare lectures and laboratory and practical works in e-form for placement online. However, this is what we now expect from our lecturers. The image of a modern university depends on this, and it also influences ratings and the ‘culture’ of science and education in general. Are you pleased with students’ cultural-educational level?

2014 беларусь.belarus

Is Belarusian higher education system still attractive to foreigners? Best traditions of fundamental classical training of specialists have been preserved in Belarus, especially in sciences. The BSU still boasts fundamental education in mathematics, physics and chemistry. Wherever I go abroad, I’m asked to ‘provide’ alumni for their post-graduate courses

We participate in educational and scientific exhibitions, enjoy Internet coverage, and advertise. Moreover, we’ve also concluded agreements with some recruiting companies. China and Turkmenistan lead, each having 700 students at this time in Belarus. Europeans and Americans also study at the BSU. We lecture in Russian and are now planning to of-

This year, the separate contest for rural applicants was abolished; they must now pass exams on a par with urban peers. Many talented youngsters from villages enter the BSU; only 40 percent of our students come from Minsk, others hail from other cities and villages. You were born in a district town, weren’t you?

— as ours are better prepared. As you know, foreigners come to us to study — which confirms our system’s attractiveness. Moreover, the number of foreign students is annually growing: last year, around 3,000 studied at our University and, five years ago, there were just 1,300. In total, around 17,000 foreign students came to Belarus to study (the figure is ever growing). I think this trend is directly connected with university ratings published in the media. Interestingly, in the late 1970s the BSU was among the USSR’s top 25 universities. What else are you doing to attract foreigners?

fer English language education from the first year of study (however, some problems exist in this respect). How long have you been lecturing and do you love communicating with students? I’ve been lecturing since 1985, after defending my PhD thesis. Of course, I love this job. On the traditional Day of the First Year Students — held at the Palace of Sports, I was pleased to take part in all festive events. I also run an electronic reception room, where I answer students’ questions and I visit our student hostels. How did new entrance rules influence the BSU?

I was born in Voronovo [Grodno Region’s Lida District] and studied there in the 1960s. In 1973, I graduated from school. At that time, nobody knew of personal tutors. I studied well, winning district and regional Olympiads in mathematics and physics. With my friend I began a correspondence course with the Moscow PhysicoTechnical Institute’s Physico-Mathematical School, after eight years at school. We received higher complexity tests by post and were later invited to enrol. However, we were afraid to move to Moscow and remained in Belarus. As a result, I entered the BSU, with a single four grade (composition); my other marks were excellent. Do you ever visit Voronovo?

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Culture as a Style of Life

I visit often, as my 82 year old mother lives there. I also meet local schoolchildren. In addition, I’ve established an Academician Ablameiko Award for winners of the Olympiad in mathematics and IT. Talented children need support — financial and moral. My school taught me much and, now, I’m ‘repaying’ my debt. Did your parents help you with mathematics? My father used to solve puzzles with me and we played chess. In year ten, I had a senior degree in chess — playing for the district and region, participating in Republican competitions. I also played basketball, football and ice hockey for the school team and was twice table tennis champion (during my 9-10th years at school). So, I wasn’t just focused on mathematics and physics. You are a team-player… This began at school, when I solved Moscow tasks with my friend. Later, my team skills proved useful when developing space-related programmes. Mathematics is exercise for the brain... yes? Mathematics puts the brain in order but I’d never assume that humanitarians’

Sergei Ablameiko always celebrates the Day of the First Year Students in BSU with students

minds are in disorder. Mathematicians learn a systematic approach to calculations while humanitarians differ. My son graduated from the Belarusian State University of Informatics and Radio-electronics and my daughter is a lawyer, having graduated from the Belarusian State University. My daughter, for example, follows her intuition — and does well. I

Rector at the stage with singer Teo, participant of “Eurovision-2014”

wouldn’t call myself a mathematician, as I deal with processing digital pictures and image identification: part of IT. It’s sometimes hard to draw the line here. Do you ever think that we can learn from modern youngsters? I do. We can learn much from young people — like my grandson. He is a third year pupil but truly brainy. Looking at him, I’m always impressed: modern children are so clever and know so much. I recall my childhood: in the first school year half the pupils couldn’t read or calculate. Modern pupils are well prepared, reading a great deal, so they are well developed. With my grandson, I love to solve problems. We didn’t do this in our first years at school but our children already solve such tasks easily! They are also great at using the most advanced tablets and telephones… Last year we visited caves once and, before the trip, he asked me whether we’d see stalactites, stalagnates and stalagmites. That impressed me greatly. He also told me the differences between them. I listen to brainy students with the same pleasure… Interviewed by Valentina and Ivan Zhdanovich

2014 беларусь.belarus

Festival soon to celebrate jubilee As the 9th International Yuri Bashmet Festival closes, audiences drift away and musicians pack up their instruments, but music lovers continue listening to concerts and already anticipate the 10th jubilee’s special programme, prepared by Artistic Director Rostislav Krimer

being performed. I’d love these events to be documented for the archives, as they are part of our country’s cultural history. Do you ensure access to your concerts at the Philharmonic for those with limited mobility? People in wheelchairs do attend our concerts, and we invite children from orphanages and hospices. We do this with great pleasure but don't advertise this at press conferences, as we feel that charity acts don't need to be shouted out at every opportunity. I wouldn't have mentioned it if you hadn’t asked. As for the Philharmonic, it does have an entrance for wheelchair users. Works by Olga Podgaiskaya were well-received at your festival. Are you planning a new Belarusian premiere for next year’s forum? It’s already a tradition; we love our composers to prepare music for us every year. Last year, Valery Voronov composed for our Festival and, in 2014, Olga Podgaiskaya presented her music. In my view, it’s great when premieres are made at such a level. All composers worldwide — including the most famous ones — dream of this. By Irina Ovsepyan

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How would you assess your success at this year’s festival? We enjoyed a true holiday of arts. Few global festivals simultaneously invite so many wonderful musicians but we managed to attract Sofia Gubaidulina, Vadim Repin, Barry Douglas and many others. Yuri Bashmet Festival has a reputation in the world of music — across the CIS and beyond. Audiences really appreciate our festival programmes, and the European Festival Association has invited us to join its ranks. In fact, its Deputy President, Massimo Mercelli, gave a concert for us this year. Whether we accept this invitation is of secondary significance:

the fact is that we have received attention, which would hardly be possible if the Festival failed to deserve it. The number of seats sold evinces public enjoyment of our programme, which is of the highest quality. Meanwhile, we continue to go from strength to strength. The Yuri Bashmet Festival is one of the most profitable cultural projects, being a good example of state-private partnership (the state injected no less than 10 percent of the cost — the greatest contribution to date). What are your plans for 2015? As the tenth festival is a special jubilee, we’d like to surprise you. We’re inviting some of the key artistes — who’ve attended our event over the past decade — to return. Do you plan to launch TV or online broadcasting? We may do, although classical music broadcasts rarely enjoy high ratings. I think there is a TV channel which would be interested. Such broadcasts are unique and the arrival of composers Sofia Gubaidulina and Krzysztof Penderecki in Belarus was a historic event. They are over 80 years old and rival such greats as Shostakovich, Schnittke and Prokofiev. They sat in the hall while their music was

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Culture as a Style of Life

Voice, style, taste, intellect… Most of us have some singing capability, using our voice to reflect our personality, emotions and experience: to convey our inner state. We can use our voice to influence those around us, as Minsk State College of Arts knows well, encouraging young talents in fulfilling their true promise.

was greatly impressed with the College where the seeds are sown for tomorrow’s great oaks: not trees, but musical performers. I admire the professional mastery of today’s popular singers, but they rarely move my emotions, lacking natural sincerity. I never feel that I’m seeing their true inner world. However, some rare treasures do appear from time to time, such as the young girl from Denmark who won Eurovision-2013, Emmelie de Forest. She not only shone but radiated the warmth of her soul — unlike the grimacing dolls and jumping marionettes we often see. Of course, various singing genres exist and that the technological age dictates its own laws; such is life. However, we shouldn’t lose sight of our values, as teacher,

composer and experienced specialist Yelena Atrashkevich would agree. Her heading of the Variety Art and Singing Department for seventeen years definitely inspires hope, being the founder of the famous Spyavaem Razam (Singing Together) amateur choir. I believe that the issue is about the pressure of work. In 2008 she became a member of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus, stating that she was, foremost, a creative person, who promoted her profession. However, she wished to bring her experience to bear, influencing wider national issues. She undertook her job at Minsk State College of Arts with the same mission: to help others. Moreover, she was awarded for her contribution to the creative development of Belarus: the ‘2,000 Years of Christianity’ badge of hon-

our. In fact, Yelena composed the Minsk Region’s anthem. Here, we discuss education at the College of Arts, how to perfect vocal skills and the difference between European and Belarusian singing. Your faculty is young. Do you already have any notable achievements among your students? A great many actually. One of our graduates, Zhenya Slutsky, won the ‘Academy of Talents’ show, on TV. Meanwhile, Ksenia Zhuk — now a well-known Belarusian performer — used to be part of such choirs as ‘Sonika’ and ‘Navi’; she’s often invited to sing with the Presidential Orchestra. Yevgeny Dolich is a laureate of various national competitions and took part in ‘Slavianski Bazaar’ in 2012. Another of our students is Alina Molash, aged 17, who sang in a trio in the ‘Junior Euro2014 беларусь.belarus

vision’ Song Contest; this year, she won the Grand Prix at the Song and Poetry Festival. I have no doubt that she'll go on to greater fame. Misha Sosunov, in his third year of study with us, managed to get through the tough selection rounds for Russian TV show ‘I Want to Meladze’. Roma Voloznev, one of the winners of the children’s ‘New Wave’ Festival, is now working with Vladimir Presnyakov — a well-known Russian singer; Roman also composes music. Yekaterina Khutinets, Alexey Gross, and many others whom I cannot list, have won national and international singing competitions and have been granted sponsorship from the Fund for the Support of the Talented Youth of the President of Belarus. Just five years — and such significant successes! You must use an individual approach for each pupil? Of course. We work selectively with children and even dissuade many from entering our college. We have excellent teaching staff, and our management trusts me in guiding them. Our profession is difficult, although it may ap-

pear easy and cheerful from 'outside'. To become a high-quality performer takes enormous work. Besides singing, you need to develop your sense of taste and style. Intelligence is also vital, since variety demands respect. These are obligatory components for a modern variety singer. We have a new generation of educated people, not only from the point of view of singing, but regarding their internal feelings. You need depth. We take on students aged 15 and above, and they tend to be mature for their years. Our programme is demanding and requires a lot of dedication. You need to feel singing as your vocational passion. As a young person, you are full of energy. This ‘power’ can take you in various directions, but we try to guide our students towards professional accomplishment. What do you look for in your students? Self-sufficient and happy people who are eager to choose this profession. I look for determination and passion and the desire to improve. They

sometimes wonder if there is room for them in this niche, but there is always room for more talent. I heard you remark to a student singing ‘Baby You’ that they should sing in European style rather than Slavic. What is the difference between a Western European performance and a Belarusian one? West European and American musical cultures provide children with good, high-quality material, which they enjoy. They can even become overinfluenced: ‘hooked’. They don’t understand that we don’t want them to copy the style of Céline Dion or Christina Aguilera. We need to be able to hear a performance of ‘Kalinka-malinka’ in good Russian, without an accent (otherwise, for me, it's kitsch). Europeans feel the same way about us singing in English, since we cannot help but mangle words and lack correct intonation. It may be ‘cool’ right now to use just three notes and two chords but that may not be so tomorrow. My task is to familiarize my students with t he cre ativity of timeless composers of Belaru-

Sergey Lazyuk

Yelena Atrashkevich with Alexander Savanets, laureate of the republican competitions, at the vocal lesson

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Sergey Lazyuk

Culture as a Style of Life

In the classroom of pedagogue Svyatlana Borakhava

Children engaged in creativity are different, having a special view of the world, with other priorities and a greater awareness of their emotions. They are not afraid to be sentimental, which makes them more tolerant and kinder to others in some difficult situations

sian and Russian classics, and to inspire enjoyment of such music. These works use melodies which have their own sense of drama and progression, building like a wave. Think of Tchaikovsky, Isaak Dunayevsky and Maxim Dunaevsky: my God, what harmonies! Jazz compositions cannot compare. Once children try these harmonies, they never look back! Moreover, I give them songs by Igor Talkov and Alla Pugacheva, for them to interpret individually, breathing new life into them. I do believe that we shouldn’t just repeat the same singing of days gone by; style should reflect modern trends, building upon well-known Slavic melodies. There’s no need to try and fill ‘dead men’s boots’ but nor should we let traditional singing die.

What do you mean? We need to have good musical taste: to truly feel a song, and understand the warmth of the Slavs. A performer should be predisposed towards this. There’s no need to simplify an old Belarusian song and just adding syncopation does little to enhance it. It may work for a Russian, Ukrainian or English song, but it is impossible for a Belarusian song. Our rich song culture was formed over decades and centuries so, if we turn our back on it, it will be lost forever. Do you promote our national creativity? We must all try to do this; it's essential. Last year, we hosted an event celebrating a decade of Belarusian music, inviting Eduard Khanok,

Dmitry Dolgalev and other composers and performers. The children were impressed by the sincerity and depth of the performances, and understood that Belarus has many layers of spiritual culture. Is that not beautiful? They all sing European songs but Europe does not sing our songs. Why? You shouldn't forget that we are part of Europe — yet different, since our art is more emotional. Western Europeans also sing with emotion but they express this differently. Our texts are deeper and more poetic. In terms of melodiousness Belarusian is second only to Italian. It is made to celebrate beauty! Its phonetics has something in common with those of Western Europe, although few realize it. When we take Belarusian groups to tour Western Europe, they ask us to sing our songs, as they want to hear the language. So, we should embrace our roots? Folklore is the repository for all world knowledge, storing it for following generations. Should we turn our back on such rich heritage, following fashions instead and adopting modern trends, which come and go? It is surely wiser to embrace our roots, which enrich our national creativity. Our Divine gift to elicit beautiful sounds will bring greater harmony to the world. Can art change the world for the better? Can you imagine your life in blackand-white, without music? When you suddenly hear a melodic phrase, does it not stir you? I am convinced that art and culture can shape our bitter world for the better. Children engaged in creativity are different, having a special view of the world, with other priorities and a greater awareness of their emotions. They are not afraid to be sentimental, which makes them more tolerant, and kinder to others. Interviewed by Alisa Krasovska

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The 2nd National Museums of Belarus Forum gathers over 400 participants in Gomel, in addition to 98 museums and 10 companies representing museum technologies

he first historical-cultural biennale took place in 2012, in Grodno, and much artistic invention was anticipated from the Gomel event. Belarus’ Culture Minister, Boris Svetlov, believes that our museums are developing well. “Since 2012 the number of visitors to our museum complexes has more than doubled. We are well aware of foreign museum experiences and are actively implementing these in our country. Importantly, new museums are opening, including the privately run ones,” he says. Last year, Belarusian museum staff organized 5,000 exhibitions and over 130,000 excursions, visited by almost 6 million people. Museum technologies have moved from reading information on stands to downloading guides onto iPhones and other mobile devices. Of course, small museums can hardly afford беларусь.belarus 2014

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The third millennium museums

this, as an info-kiosk alone costs around $8,000. However, efforts are being made to solve obstacles, notes the General Director of the National Art Museum, Vladimir Prokoptsov. He explains, “European museums generate up to 60 percent of their profit from souvenir shops, art-cafes and children’s play rooms. We are moving along this path, aiming to ensure that whole families come to our museums, irrespective of age of members. Sadly, most Belarusian museums were built in Soviet times, when comfort was less appreciated, so money is now being spent on rebuilding premises.” In 2013 the Nesvizh National Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve enjoyed the most visitors, followed by Brest Hero-Fortress Memorial Complex. Gomel’s Palace and Park Estate occupied the third place. Its General Director,

Alexander Gostev, reveals the secret of attracting foreign tourists, saying, “Any business requires a target group. Most of our foreign guests are Russian, from Bryansk Region, Moscow and St. Petersburg. Apart from liaising with tourist companies, we advertise in spas and recreation centres. The results speak for themselves, as half of our visitors arrive from abroad.” The forum also prepared a professionals’ rating, with the winners of the Museums of Belarus in the Third Millennium contest announced across six major and four special nominations. Galina Nechaeva, the Director of the Vetka Folk Art Museum, was acknowledged ‘Best Head’, while Oshmyany Local History Museum (named after F. Bogushevich) won ‘Best Art Design’. The Grand Prix went to the National Art Museum. By Stanislav Galkovsky

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Culture as a Style of Life

Masterpieces worth their weight in gold National brand of Belarus — Slutsk belts — experience the second birth

resident Alexander Lukashenko initiated the idea of reviving the technology and traditions of making legendary Slutsk belts two years ago via the Slutsk Belts state programme, running until 2015. The notion has proven extremely popular, with Slutsk belt designs appearing on book covers, dresses, stamps and coins. The main objective of the programme has been the revival of the craftsmanship of Slutsk belts. Three hundred years ago, they were woven from golden and silver thread and were worn by the wealthiest noblemen and merchants, as a sign of prestige. They were even ‘faked’ by French masters. A great deal of time and energy has been dedicated to the revival of traditional methods in recreating the masterpieces of long ago, with expert help from the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus. Vitebsk State Technological University specialists developed a unique computerized loom especially for the purpose, with the commission taken by a well-known German firm. Meanwhile, the final manufacture of the exclusive gar-

ment has been entrusted to Slutskie Poyasa Republican Unitary Enterprise. The first belt of such a kind (a full copy of an original) was presented to the President during his visit to Slutsk this spring. It is now on show at the Palace of Independence, where its 3.5m of beautiful craftsmanship can be admired. It weighs just half a kilo, despite its intricacy. According to the director of Slutskie Poyasa enterprise, Larisa Tarasova, it took six months to make that first belt, but the process is now much quicker. Designs are approved by the Scientific-andExpert Council, created under the Ministry of Culture. Ms. Tarasova tells us, "We are copying belts that have remained in Belarus and are currently working with originals from the National Art Museum of Belarus and Minsk Regional Local History Museum in Molodechno.” The most skilled weavers have trained in Germany to use the unique loom, which is controlled by two computers. Each 3.5m belt takes just 62 hours to complete: vastly faster than the time it took Slutsk weavers so many years ago, when all weaving was undertaken by hand. It was the preserve of men, and hard work. 2014 беларусь.belarus

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The most skilled employees of the factory received special training to work with the unique machine tool

This year graduates from the Baranovichi State College of Light Industry will have a chance to use the machine tool. Larisa won't reveal how many unique Slutsk belts have been made on the German machine so far, as it's a commercial secret, but she explains that belts are generally made to order, as gifts for foreigners. Our museums are yet to buy the masterpieces, as they are too expensive. She notes that the gilding costs approximately $6,000, although cheaper variants are possible. “For example, a fragment of just 33cm x 43cm can cost about $250, if using silk and metallized thread. Of course, we can use real silver and gold if requested,” she explains. Ms. Tarasova is proud of this, saying, “We’ve managed to recreate historical technologies; it’s a real miracle. Our history and our pride have returned to us: Slutsk belts which were once seen only rarely in Belarusian museums.” Among the inexpensive souvenirs bearing Slutsk belt motives are bookmarks, covers for mobile phones and glasses, and various bags, all made at the factory. Workers have three shifts, and all production is sold quickly.

 The first belt in Belarus was woven not in Slutsk, but in Nesvizh. Michał Kazimierz Radziwiłł invited a Stanislaw weaver (now Ivano-Frankovsk) called Jan Madjarski to begin making special garments.  The Slutsk factory closed after Belarusian territory became part of the Russian Empire: the new authorities forbade noble kontusz and the belts.  Slutsk belts were so famous that people in Poland, Ukraine and, even, French Lyon tried to copy them.  One of the greatest collections of Slutsk belts is in Moscow, presented by famous collector Piotr Shchukin to the State Historical Museum of Moscow. He collected belts across all Russia and had agents in Belarus.  The museum collections of Belarus have no more than 30 Slutsk belts: whole and in fragments.

By Lyudmila Minakova

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Culture as a Style of Life

Ovations sound across Polesie Some believe that Polesie is the ancestral home of the Slavs, from where they moved to new lands. They say that Kirill of Turov was born there: perhaps the author of Old Russian literature’s Tale of Igor's Campaign. Whether true or not, wild Polesie certainly feels like ‘the edge of the world’.

he 3rd International Call of Polesie Folk Festival was recently held in the agro-town of Lyaskovichi, in Gomel Region, uniting not only the eleven districts of Gomel and Brest regions (of original Polesie) but participants from Russia, Ukraine, Poland and, even, China. Alexander Lukashenko welcomed participants and visitors of the holiday, noting the symbolic character of the forum receiving international status during the Year of Hospitality in Belarus. He asserted, “Polesie’s land is unique,

being a treasury of ancient ceremonies, crafts and folklore; its inhabitants are notable for their huge diligence, sincerity and special sense of humour. The festival helps us to realize our role in modern world culture, uniting our efforts to study and preserve our invaluable historical heritage.” Polesie still boasts its original crafts, ceremonies and costumes, with nuances across various settlements. Each adds its own fragrance to the bright bouquet, as evinced at the Call of Polesie festival. Every year, its programme grows richer and more diverse. This year, farmsteads from across Gomel and Brest regions organized a trade fair, stretching for 1.5km

along the River Pripyat, filling tables with food, allowing visitors to sample tasty produce. Meanwhile, craftsmen invited people to try their hand, under close supervision, to make a souvenir. Competitions, entertainments, music, horse riding and Pripyat River cruises were among the most popular pastimes, while only the bravest dare go up in the balloon which was tethered. The ‘Polesie Games’ were an innovation of the festival, with a photo exhibition first taking place, showcasing portraits of the most famous Polesie residents. Moreover, the title of Honorary Polesie Resident was awarded — for significant contributions to the socio-eco2014 беларусь.belarus

nomic development of the Pripyat River Polesie area, as well as for the preservation and revival of cultural traditions. To storms of applause, winners of diplomas, statuettes (called Belarusian ‘Oscars’ by the journalists) and Slutsk belts were announced. Those awarded included the President of the Republic of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, named an Honorary Polesie Resident. The honour also went to the Director of the National Academic Orchestra of Symphonic and Popular Music, Mikhail Finberg, and to the Director of the Wooden Sculpture Centre from the Stolin District’s Tereblichi, Ivan Suprunchik. Finally, the Director of the Pripyatsky National Park, Stepan Bambiza, was also given the title. Meanwhile, eleven local ladies entered the Polesie Beauty contest, held for the first time; no Alesya was among them (as in Alexander Kuprin’s story of the same name, and in the song by Syabry). However, the women of Polesie are certainly bewitching, beautiful and clever. The winner was Valeria Volynchits from Luninets. Also the innovation of this year was a photo exhibition of portraits of well-known Polesie residents. One was even awarded the title of Honorary Polesie Resident. беларусь.belarus 2014

The Russian North Chukotka song and dance group gave an original performance. Soloist Olit Tevlyanaut noted that she has visited Gomel Region before but that each time she discovers something new. Cheng Hao from China received a great ovation for performing Kupalinka in Chinese, having endeavoured to create a ‘bridge’ between China and Belarus in this way. Ukrainian ensemble Chip was received with special warmth, since Ukraine

is a neighbour and sister to Belarusian Polesie residents. Group leader Oleg Shishuk noted, “Ukraine is in crisis, but human ties and our friendship will help to overcome it. The Call of Polesie festival is held every two years but its popularity is ever growing, with more people wishing to participate. It could be that the event will one day become annual. By Valentina Laikova

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Culture as a Style of Life

Ballet, comedy, tragedy, concerts and films to suit every taste New cultural season in Belarus brings traditional wealth of premieres for audiences Dramaturgy, led by Alexander Marchenko, is looking more promising: especially its November premiere of the documentary Napeuna (Maybe). Its performance of Great Resettlement of Freaks, based on Nikolay Rudkovsky’s play, is also much awaited. The theatre’s repertoire already includes Rudovsky’s Living till the Premiere and Bergman’s Women (a real festival hit) directed by Yekaterina Averkova. The premiere of Love of People, based on Dmitry Bogoslavsky’s play and directed by Alexander Gartsueva, is also expected to draw praise, having enjoyed success at Moscow’s Mayakovsky Theatre.

The 45th season sees the Belarusian State Academic Musical Theatre staging six premieres. Mikhail Kovalchik is directing Sholem Aleichem, or Peace Be with You, People! with music by Belarusian composer Oleg Khodosko. Other popular performances will be the much loved musical Fiddler on the Roof, by American Jerry Bock, and the ballet Cleopatra set to music by Belarusian composer Sergey Beltyukov and staged by the head ballet master, People’s Artiste Vladimir Ivanov. Musical comedy Wedding in Malinovka, by Andrey Tutyshkin, is also likely to prove a success, staged by the Artistic Director of the Gorky National Academic Drama

Scene from “Dubrovsky” musicle

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he popular Republican Theatre of Belarusian Dramaturgy is rehearsing three new stagings for the coming season, although critics note that the repertoire now tends towards lighter entertainment. Whether this is a good move is yet to be seen. Recent premieres of the comedies Fint-Kruaze and Contract proved less than notable, and were obviously without festival potential. Valery Anisenko’s retirement is, so far, resulting in a poorer standard, and fewer festival diplomas. The Centre of Belarusian Direction and

Theatre, Sergey Kovalchik. The Wizard of the Emerald City is being presented for children by Denis Nemtsov — in his debut as a director. The comedy In Love but Discreet, based Lope de Vega’s work is being directed by Anna Motornaya — known for her brilliant Pagliacci. An Evening of Oneact Ballets, choreographed by Lyubov Andreeva, who studied under Valentin Yelizariev, completes the list of premieres. Eight premieres are expected at the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre for the 2014-2015 season. At the beginning of October, Igor Stravinsky’s romantic Firebird, directed by Andris Liepa, proved a hit with audiences. A ballet in two acts, Laurencia, is being unveiled in December, directed by People’s Artiste of Georgia and Russia Nina Ananiashvili. La Serva Padrona (The Servant Turned Mistress) by Giovanni Battista Pergolesi and Kapellmeister by Domenico Cimarosa will continue the tradition of one-act comedic operas. Mikhail Pandzhavidze will stage Pagliacci, by Leoncavallo, on December 10th-11th, followed by a new staging of The Tsar’s Bride, by Nikolai RimskyKorsakov, next March. Audiences can then look forward to Yuri Troyan’s updated version of Boris Asafiev’s ballet The Fountain of Bakhchisaray. Next summer sees a new staging of Carmen (always popular). The Gorky National Academic Drama Theatre will premiere Pesnyar, based on Vasily Dranko-Maisyuk’s play and directed by Valentina Yerenkova: a semi-fantasy devoted to the memory of Vladimir Mulyavin. The leading roles are performed by Sergey Zhbankov, Sergey Chekeres and Alexander Zhdanovich. The Yanka Kupala National Academic Theatre is to premiere Father, directed by Yekaterina Averkova and based on Dmitry Bogoslavsky’s play The Quiet Rustle of Outgoing Steps. People’s Artiste of the USSR and Belarus, Gennady Ovsyannikov, plays a leading role, alongбеларусь.belarus 2014

side People’s Artiste of Belarus Gennady Garbuk, Roman Podolyako and Sergey Rudenya. Theatre-lovers may already be familiar with Bogoslavsky’s play from its time at the Belarusian Drama Theatre. The Belarusian State Puppet Theatre’s unusual version of Tartuffe, directed by the Chief Director of the Theatre, National Theatrical Award winner Alexey Lelyavsky, kicks off a season also fea-

turing The Wolf and the Seven Young Goats and Munchhausen Show, as well as a performance for adults: The Birds by Aristophanes. Full houses are likely for the Belarusian Republican Young Spectator’s Theatre premiere of Teddy, directed by Yegor Legkin. Its season opens with a premiere of How I Became... based on Russian playwright Yaroslava Pulinovich’s work. At the Gomel Regional Drama Theatre director Modest Abramov presents his premiere of Kill Me, My Dear Fellow, based on Turkish writer Aziz Nesin’s work. Gomel residents can also enjoy the premiere of Theatre, inspired by the well-known Broadway play by Michael Frayn, directed by Ukrainian Andrey Bakirov (known for his Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Kupala Theatre). This is his fifth performance on Gomel stage. Meanwhile, the Grodno Regional Drama Theatre will continue its July staging of Investigating the Accidental Death of an Anarchist, written by Nobel laureate Dario Fo and directed by Sergey Kurilenko. The Mogilev Regional Puppet Theatre continues to concentrate on children’s performances: The Smallest Plane in the World and The Little Humpbacked

Horse, and a new staging of Buratino and Alice in Wonderland. The Yakub Kolas Theatre in Vitebsk continues its compelling staging of Abyss, by Ray Bradbury, marking the birthday of actor Tadeush Koshtys: last year’s Crystal Paulinka winner. Audiences are sure to approve of a new staging of Harold and Maude, directed by Vladimir Savitsky, the ever-popular King Stakh’s Wild Hunt, directed by Yuri Lezingevich, and She’s All That, directed by Alexander Marchenko. Marking the 70th anniversary of WWII Victory, the Vitebsk collective is staging Do Not Leave Me, by Alexey Dudarev, and, for students, White Angel... based on Diana Balyko’s play entitled White Angel with Black Wings. Saulius Varnas, from Lithuania, recently appointed as Artistic Director at Mogilev’s Regional Drama Theatre, gives us an innovative staging of Gogol’s Marriage, premiered at the end of July, last season, and launched again from September 25th. The Brest Regional Drama Theatre will premiere The Game of Love and Chance, by Pierre Carlet de Chamblain de Marivaux, directed by the Artistic Director of the Brest Theatre, Alexander Kozak (behind the Belaya Vezha Festival). Thin Edge of the Wedge is scheduled for the end of October, at the Belarusian State Philharmonic Society, with composer Eduard Khanok’s best-loved works performed by Yadviga Poplavskaya and Alexander Tikhanovich, Inna Afanasieva, Larisa Gribaleva and children’s choirs. On October 24th, the Philharmonic will also host People’s Artiste of Belarus, Professor Igor Olovnikov, in a solo concert. This autumn, film fans will be looking forward to Alexandra Butor’s White Dews Return, and the Minsk International Listapad Film Festival, which features a retrospective of Scandinavian film making. By Valentin Pepelyaev

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Culture as a Style of Life

Love in focus National Academic Maxim Gorky Drama Theatre premieres Italian-Belarusian Viva Commedia — the first ‘comedia dell’arte’ performance of such a kind to be staged by a foreign director in Belarus

Comedia dell’arte always uses certain, recognizable characters, although their number varies depending on local customs and audiences’ preferences, as well as actors’ inventiveness. Minsk show features two men (Pantalone and Graciano) and two servants (often called Zanni — deriving from Venetian Giovanni — Zan). In addition, there are lovers and the Captain. Comedia dell’arte permits great use of the imagination by performers, al-

lowing them to demonstrate their professional skills and experiment with new roles. Our young and talented actors have used this opportunity to the full: Honoured Artiste of Belarus Sergey Chekeres is joined by Sergey Prokopovich, Andrey Senkin, Sergey Zhbankov, Veronika Plyashkevich, Inna Savenkova, Vladimir Glotov, Oleg Kots, Yelena Dubrovskaya and Ruslan Chernetsky. The idea of staging the performance was born following a master class and lectures given by Spiazzi and Pippa held in Minsk in April. Rehearsals began soon in Belarus with the Italian director and playwright teaching our actors all aspects of masked performance. Later, they wrote the text in Belarusian together, joined by scholars from the Belarusian State University, fluent in both languages. “Our ideas were generated during rehearsals,” notes Mr. Pippa. “We were improvising and, each evening, I wrote the lines, sending them to an interpreter every night; by early Darya Andreeva

he Embassy of Italy to Belarus has premiered an Italian-B elarusian theatrical project — Viva Comedia — as part of cultural events marking Italy’s presidency of the EU. The performance is based on that of the same name staged by Verona director Matteo Spiazzi, written by playwright Riccardo Pippa with support from the Italian Embassy to Minsk and the Gorky Theatre. Masks for the performance were produced by Italian master Roberto Macci. T h e ‘c o m m e d i a dell'arte’ genre uses masks to allow actors to take on their roles: limiting facial expression but dictating manners of speech, movement and gesture to bring each character to life. This inspires a different acting method of course.

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morning, we had our script ready to be distributed.” Italians and Belarusians used three languages to discuss the ‘theatre of emotions and shows’, while dancing, singing, training in gestures and cooking spaghetti… Pantalone now speaks with an Odessa accent, while the Capitano and Zan exchange phrases in Lithuanian and Polish — like true Belarusian tourists. The performance demonstrates truly Italian features: romantic guitar music, Italian language songs, Latin words, the cult of eating, carnival merrymaking and strong passions. It combines Belarusian psychology and European open-air theatrical approaches. беларусь.belarus 2014

Commedia dell'arte epitomizes the joy of living in the moment in order to be content. It encourages the audience to forget past sorrows and concentrate on the happiness of today. All the characters of this emotional and dynamic performance are in love

Commedia dell'arte epitomizes the joy of living in the moment, in order to be content. It encourages the audience to forget past sorrows and to concentrate on the happiness of today. All the characters of this emotional and dynamic performance are in love: one adores a wonderful lady; another is in love with a mysterious stranger; a third covets gold and diamonds; some love youth and beauty; others embrace carnal delights; and one character loves all others and is fond of teasing. The action takes place in the most romantic city in the world — Venice — and is accompanied by serenades, secrets, intrigue, sun, sea and carnivals. By Mikhalina Cherkashyna

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Culture as a Style of Life

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 Famous public figure, diplomat and composer Duke Michal Kleofas Oginski lived at Zalesie estate for around two decades (1802-1822), composing his most popular polonaise — Farewell Homeland. At that time, the estate was a true cultural centre, attracting musicians, composers, poets and artists, who called it the ‘Northern Athens’.

Globally known polonaise composed here Oginski dukes’ mansion opens in Zalesie in Grodno Region’s Smorgon District after reconstruction

any outstanding and talented people have lived and worked in Grodno Region, which boasts lands rich in history and traditions. Sites similar to Zalesie are found region-wide, inspiring local authorities to restore them to life, often with investors’ help. Culture Minister Boris Svetlov notes of Oginski estate that he’d like to see it not just revived but ‘filled with people,

hosting concerts and musical parties, and attracting tourists from abroad’. According to the chief architect heading restoration, Lyudmila Ivanova, the house's exterior is now complete, but the interior has only enjoyed fragmented restoration: structural works, new windows, doors and roof, and heating and ventilation installed. The stairs, facades and flooring have all been replaced. The building now closely resembles its original appearance (when owned by

famous Michal Kleofas Oginski) thanks to documents in historical archives. Since the interiors were ‘lost’, inventory descriptions and eyewitness recollections were used. Engravings (featuring Zalesie) helped, including works by Napoleon Orda. As a result, Oginski’s study, the large and small sitting rooms and a billiard room have been fully restored. The large music room, with its stage, is almost exactly as it once was, and guest rooms for tourists have been prepared in the left wing, while the enclosed court is now ready to host concerts. Work continues of course; still the greenhouse, the clock tower with bell (as depicted in Orda’s engraving) and furniture (to order) are needed. Next year, the orchard and the park will receive attention, alongside outbuildings. The issue of finding museum exhibits remains unsolved, with Director Lyudmila Groditskaya hoping to see the museum earn money to help purchase various items once belonging to the former estate owner. Since 2011, 200,000 Euros have been allocated as part of the Latvia-LithuaniaBelarus trans-border co-operation programme to reconstruct the estate. In addition, the project has received around Br25bln from the Republican budget. All works should be complete by 2015: the 250th anniversary of the birth of the man who composed the Farewell Homeland polonaise. By Veniamin Mikheev

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 Mountain releases its riches

 In expectation of Listapad

Nearly seven thousand exhibits from the 10-12th centuries were found by archaeologists during excavations in Mstislavl. It took the whole week for experts to make their full inventory.

I Won’t Come Back, directed by Estonian Ilmar Raag, and co-produced by Russia, Estonia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Finland, opens Minsk’s Listapad2014 International Film Festival

ritics compare the film to the works of Alexey Balabanov, greatly admired by the Estonian producer. The plot follows smart and beautiful graduate Anya (Polina Pushkaruk), aged 23, who has grown up in a children’s home, and now teaches literature at university. She is accused of drug distribution so, taking advantage of her youthful appearance, returns to the orphanage. There, she encounters young Kristina (Victoria Lobacheva), and the pair go on the run: the first from wrongful persecution and the second to find her grandmother in Kazakhstan. Their journey marks a new beginning for Anya… The film is directed by Sergey Selyanov and the script is co-authored by

 Girl that will sing Nadezhda Misyakova from Minsk will represent our country at the 2014 Junior Eurovision Song Contest. The 14 year old singer won in the Song for Eurovision Republican Children’s Contest with the song Sokol (Falcon).

talented participants from various regions of Belarus who had passed all the previous stages of strict selection, fought for the right to take the stage of Junior Eu-

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Oleg Gaza and Yaroslava Pulinovich (who studied under Nikolay Kolyada). Critics are calling the young actresses a ray of light for the world of the silver screen. The Director of Listapad-2014, Igor Sukmanov, explains that he chose the film to open the festival because of it being jointly produced by the CIS and the Baltic States countries — including contributions by Belarusfilm Studio. Meanwhile, I Won't Come Back is a good example of melodrama and has already received the Nora Ephron Prize at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York (the USA), and the Professional Achievement Award at the Andrei Tarkovsky International Mirror Film Festival (Russia).

rovision which will be hosted this year by Valetta in Malta on November 15th. Viewers and a professional jury jointly chose the winner. Following the results, three performers had an equal quantity of points and, according to the following additional voting of jury, Nadya became the winner. She performs in the Zaranak ensemble at Vladimir Mulyavin National Centre of Musical Art in the pop workshop of Vasily Senkov. She has won various contests before.

t is one of the richest and the most unique collections of rarities found recently in Belarus,” Research supervisor of excavations, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor Igor Marzalyuk noted. “Its uniqueness is in the fact that we found whole ranges of materials from different eras, which allow us to see the lives of eastern Slavs from the

Belta

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10-17th centuries, starting from their food rations to their level of education and armament. For example, the literacy of our ancestors is confirmed by a birch bark manuscript from the 11th century (the third such find in Belarus) on which a child scribbled a message, while valuable jewelleries from the Byzantine Empire, Syria, the Caucasus, testify to the riches of the inhabitants of ancient Mstislavl.” Among the rare exhibits is a slate spindle whorl with an inscription in Cyrillic alphabet, a leather belt belonging to a man-at-arms, a Byzantine bowl for wine, painted with gold, a cross-encolpion and a big crystal bead from the Byzantine Empire. Elements of weapons, clothes and household items were also found.

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Culture as a Style of Life

Beauty for centuries from Ivan Dmukhailo Centenary of birth of the well-known artist inspires country’s main museum to exhibit one hundred of his pictures

I Tatsiana Staliarova

van Dmukhailo’s creativity has never been represented so fully as it is today at the National Art Museum, thanks to donations by his widow, Maria Veiner, from her own collection. Moreover, photos from family albums are on show, and personal possessions once owned by the master. The rich heritage of artist Ivan D mu k h ai l o, u n doubtedly, com-

Maria Veiner

prises an attractive page in landscape painting, inspired by the scenery of Ukraine and Belarus: lyrical, rural and even urban scenes. Meanwhile, the charm of novelty endures across his legacy, despite his works’ similarity of theme. From Ivan Dmukhailo’s recollections: “My family tree has many branches: one grandfather painted icons; the other directed and acted for the Kiev Drama Theatre; one uncle was a priest who, for no reason, disappeared on the Solovki; and my wonderful, cordial mother taught me to love and appreciate nature, wild and beautiful.” Two of his teachers studied under Repin; they became his ‘godfathers’, teaching him the profession of ‘Artist’. Ivan wrote that, by the age of 85, he had realized that he had experienced ‘the Stone Age’ moving to modern days of technical progress: enduring the greatest war in history and Chernobyl, before crossing into the third millennium. Through his understanding of the

majesty of nature, he became free and wise. In his role as ‘Creator’, he understood that art is a miracle of infinite metamorphosis. It exists not to invent something new but to convey the things that already exist. Dmukhailo’s art was rooted in Ukraine, since he was born in the Ukrainian village of Topchino, in Dnepropetrovsk Region. In 1939 he completed his studies at Dnepropetrovsk Art College, moving to Belarus after the Great Patriotic War: first Brest, then Grodno, before moving to Minsk. From Ivan Dmukhailo’s recollections: “Being so old makes it difficult to leave the past behind. My Ukrainian childhood was hard, but I loved those days...” As a young man, Ivan had his own opinions and took little on trust feeling the need to be convinced by his own experience. He adored melodious Ukrainian poetry and began writing his own verse, with a shade of bitterness, tainted by those hard Great Patriotic War years, and those that followed. He met many kind of souls on his way: in Brest, where he began on his creative path, then in Grodno, and then in Minsk. There, he became a well-known artist but remained always grateful to his Belarusian 2014 беларусь.belarus

Ivan Dmukhailo

friends and colleagues for their support and encouragement. What distinguishes Ivan Dmukhailo’s creativity from that of other landscape painters? First of all, he always found his ‘own’ images in ordinary scenes to tell his lyrical story about the beauty of the Earth and its sacraments. He sought his own intonations and individual poetic voice. It is this which brings sincerity and warmth to his canvases, regardless of monumental works being directly alongside. We might say that his picturesque songs are filled with some spiritual creatures. For him beauty exists in clear and harmonic relations with the sacred mysteries of Mother Nature. Such beauty is both graphic and spiritual, making nature the source of constant inspiration to the artist. This state and the perception of delicate and inspired liveliness give his landscapes wonderful mood of either lyrical tranquillity or uneasy intensity— as we feel before a thunderstorm. Taking into account this balancing between harmony and anxiety, it is hard for us to classify him. Unusuбеларусь.belarus 2014

ally careful towards the chosen motif, Ivan Dmukhailo paints trying not to miss anything from what brings him a lively dialogue with nature. We can say only that he presents his own interpretations, rather than ‘photographic reproductions’. He brings his own reality in each of his canvases, connecting the open spaces of the Earth and the sky, in which the whole world is embodied, portrayed via careful brushstrokes: soft, quiet, and sometimes hidden in a misty haze. From Ivan Dmukhailo’s recollections:

“I’m happy that, within the limits of what is possible, I’ve managed to show my favourite corners of blue-eyed Belarus in my canvases. Perhaps nothing of the same kind exists elsewhere in the whole universe. I understood that, in order for nature to enter our heart, confess to us while showing its fantastic charm, kindness and perfection, we must approach it with a pure soul, without being distracted by daily banalities or trivia. Only then can the lofty and beautiful be revealed to us in the most ordinary phenomenon. Gold in painting is silver, while silver is gold.” The most plain and simplest motifs of Belarusian, Ukrainian and Russian nature inspired Ivan Dmukhailo’s many years of creativity. This feeling of the value of the whole creation surrounding us, the feeling of high fullness of earthly existence is his own, special and personal. This is a purely human peculiarity which determines much in Mr. Dmukhailo’s creativity, helping him to see something open only to him alone. His art is full of this ‘human response’: his own interpretation of that which lays before him. In this way, his canvases always have their own novelty and freshness. Although his landscapes and still-life works share similar themes, they never cease to have their own flavour. Ivan Dmukhailo loved life in all its forms and in its completeness. He had no favourite season, painting all with equal fervour. He feels the Earth as a living entity: ever changing yet eternal. It mattered not whether he writes the last snow or a rainy day near Logoisk, beside Grodno’s Kolozha Church, or standing before autumn birches in Minsk’s Drozdy, or admiring the March sun over the River Niemen or the glassy calm of the River Svisloch. Meanwhile, he also enjoyed painting early twilight when the day light gradually goes down and when everything ‘is covered

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Culture as a Style of Life

with magic light’; those dusky moments never failed to surprise him, changing his perception of a familiar scene and lending it another secret life. Ivan referred to artists boasting a strongly marked passion: Poetry. The poetry of painting and the poetry of the word: shaping colour, form and word. This brand of poetry is evident in his canvases: exhibited at the National Art Museum of Belarus. It lives in his landscapes and still-life works: big and small, sunny and sad, epical and chamber, written from nature and those created in the studio and based on his impressions, very good pictures and those not very successful. They are always sincere, without pretension, seeking only to reveal his vision of nature, in all its diverse beauty. Ivan’s long lifetime may be compared to the ‘path of civilisation’. Being born at the very beginning of WWI, in 1914, he was at the front in the following great war. He witnessed the biggest ecological catastrophe in the history of humankind: Chernobyl, the consequences of which fell upon Ukrainians and Belarusians. Despite many hardships, he never broke his ties with nature, always worshiping and seeking balance. He comprehended its secrets, its complexities and its purity, realizing that its infinite transformations echo those of the universe. He gloried in its simplicity and never ending puzzles; it is this that marks him out as a great creator. We are all ‘born’ of our own time, shaped by events and circumstances. It’s extremely difficult to remain an artist of one’s own time, to evolve and to constantly grow, as a big tree. Evolving beyond this is the greatest challenge. By nature, Ivan Dmukhailo was a poet-lyricist and an eternal optimist, with a note of nostalgia for his modest native land — and for the unforgettable years of youth. His Ukrainian childhood was hard, but defined his further growth. He witnessed the Holodomor famine, and the loss of relatives, bringing home the importance

of word and deed. Meanwhile, against everything, against these sad, twisting circumstances of the history, he sought out the Ukrainian language, through the words of his mother’s songs. As a teenager, he began writing poetry in Ukrainian and continued to do it all his life. His love for his native land found expression in his native language, as we see with the course of time, and again in his creativity, where the motif of his native home is constantly presented. On the eve of war, Ivan Dmukhailo studied at Dnepropetrovsk Art School and honoured his Ukrainian teachers all his life for having taught him all they knew. His youth was connected with the Great Patriotic War, and with

Maria Veiner and Ivan Dmukhailo in previous years

post-war hardships: he might have descended into bitterness, fear and pain but, rather, he managed to find what is beautiful in the world. His canvases sing with cheer. He knew that one could ‘burst’ into classical painting even due to a single work, dedicated to the military events. While many artists explored the theme of war and loss, he focused on birch groves, the rustle of foliage, and the scattering of gentle spring flowers. There is no need to know which particular locations inspired him, since his canvases are likely to be a composite of all his various impressions. The landscape genre values truthfulness and sincerity above all and, among all Belarusian masters of landscape art, Ivan Dmukhailo was notable in casting his own path and his own images. In portraying Belarus’ nature, he conveyed his own original story of eternal truth, telling us about the beauty of the Earth and its secrets through his own intonations and his unique manner. Therefore, among the large Belarusian schools of landscapes his images are distinctively poetic and melodious, with enduring integrity. Simple and plain motifs of Belarusian nature were filled with inner significance in Dmukhailo’s works. His appreciation of the whole creation drove his creativity and, thanks to his poetic gift, Ivan also loved the Belarusian word and Belarusian poetry. He knew well the works of Yanka Kupala, grasping the individualism of the People’s Poet of Belarus. His Awakening depicts Yanka Kupala with his wife and he more than once drew on landscapes connected with the great poet: in the 1960s and in the 1980s. Ivan loved Belarus, in all its magnificence: he loved its great history and its unique landscapes, as he showed us joyfully. His canvases show us his favourite corners of this blueeyed country, rich in lakes — as per2014 беларусь.belarus

Tatsiana Staliarova

At the jubilee exhibition of Ivan Dmukhailo’s pieces of work

haps found nowhere else. By the late 1960s his naturalistic style (or, more precisely, geographical passion) had given way to generalization attempts. His canvases had become hymns of epic scope, creating an unequivocally accurate portrayal of his country. In the 1960s a new stage of creativity began for Ivan Dmukhailo, with his Dnepropetrovsk training put aside in favour of pure innovation, inspired by Belarusian horizons. His delight in wild open spaces dictated a new, light feeling — such as is seen in At Forest Border, Dawns, and Spring Sun, which are all well-known today. The artist felt nature as a living entity, seeing its breath on a cloudy autumn day, in the March sun over fields in Logoisk area, and in the sky’s reflection in the waters of the Niemen River. Most of all he enjoyed the twilight hours, when everything is filled with indescribable mystery or at least the promise of mystery — as seen in his Winter (1957), Night City (1967) and Thoughtfulness (1980). He grew ever more impulsive and light of touch беларусь.belarus 2014

with age: an evident master of landscape, a brilliant master of lyrical moods, a heartfelt singer of Belarusian lakes, fields and woods, rivers, dawns and sunsets, tender spring and silent winter, sonorous autumn and hot summer. He may have no equal in emotional depth, which is perhaps best demon-

strated in his most optimistic canvas May, executed with great diligence and in impressionistic style. In line with the practice and theory of this trend, all colours exist separately while our eyes and impressions mix them in an incomparable effect. The very light seems to tremble, greater in our imagination than in reality, creating a shimmering recollection of the end of spring. Ivan Dmukhailo happily avoided officiousness, wishing to share his love to Belarus via his legacy of hundreds of canvases. Through them, he has bequeathed a priceless documentation of our country’s scenery, seasons and moods. Each work is like a piece of music, assuaging the soul and bringing tenderness and pleasure. Nature was probably the only empress of his thoughts and ruled his thoughts, and was the source of all his inspiration: the ultimate muse. We see unlimited peace of boundless plains, the dreamy breath of the Earth blanketed by autumn mist, the warmth of a wood thicket on the horizon, and rays of brightness of a hot summer

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Culture as a Style of Life

day. His landscapes are marked by magical energy: a real presence of tranquility, melancholy, delight and excitement. Light and air are captured by his brush, testifying to richness and diversity of the atmosphere ‘palette’ and revealing to us the ideas, images and feelings always close to him. They whisper to our soul. Ivan loved to paint in the open air, seeking out places which spoke to him. Many of his pictures were also painted in his silent studio, relying on his impressions. He seldom depicted people, which strengthens his atmosphere of mystery

Ivan Dmukhailo’s outlook and style, undoubtedly, shaped the development of Belarusian landscape painting. It would be fair to say that Ivan Dmukhailo is one of the few masters who ‘formulated’ the Belarusian landscape: his softness and modesty reflecting not only that of Belarusian nature, but that of Belarusian people. He remained a dreamer, always painting, driven by his desire to penetrate the essence, sense and mystery of nature. He painted through the domination of cubism, surrealism and

From the very first, his works were filled with truth, as defined by the sincerity of nature. He sketched from childhood, in a free manner, although with attention to detail: wattle houses, fences topped with bottles, and sunflowers. Later, he set aside such minor aspects, favouring the portrayal of an overall impression of melancholy and nostalgia. Of course, not everything was ideal in his early works. Hoverer, his simplicity and uniformity of palette were honed over time, growing organically, until he mastered ‘the moment’. His early pieces possess an apprehension

and unreality. The time of day, be that dawn or dust, and the weather — drizzle, fog or sun — appear spiritual rather than physical, bringing intimacy. We are invited to draw near and to lift the curtain on his secret places, connecting with his seclusion and emotional journey. He unveiled the psychological characteristics of each landscape in a very intimate fashion, capturing exquisite moments in time. He did this without ‘show’, preferring silent meditation and romanticism, showing us not just the beauty of nature but his own state of mind. In this, he was truly remarkable among Belarusian landscape painters.

abstractionism, while remaining true to the realistic school of painting, with its figurative pictorial language. He was born in Ukraine, but became a ‘Belarusian Leviathan’. An Honoured Figure of Arts of Belarus and holder of the Ukrainian order ‘For Merit’, Ivan Dmukhailo never differentiated between his two native lands. For more than 60 years, he lived in Belarus, but often spoke Ukrainian while painting Belarusian landscapes with enthusiasm. Belarus fascinated him with its soft nature colours and simple but memorable motifs; they satisfy the soul and warm the heart.

of his later works though the difference between the first steps and constancy is rather great. The painter refused from accentuating the item of depiction and shifted his attention to the lightness of impressions and the feeling of the moment. He experimented with times of the day, and the movement of light and shade, endeavouring to capture fluctuating elements, often returning to the banks of lakes and small rivers. Many of Ivan Dmukhailo’s landscapes now comprise the golden fund of Belarusian landscape painting: unique, soulful, emotional and expressive, regardless of whether the canvas is large

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or small. The art can be compared with the time. The image in Ivan Dmukhailo’s works — as if a reflection in time — is marked by the author’s special attitude towards nature and soul. Transparently thin birches become part of the balance of light and shade when painted by his brush. Wood in the Evening is distinct in being occupied by powerful pines, standing like primordial guardians of time. This isn’t merely a canvas; it shows us a landscape that touches the soul: a scene of melancholy Earthly beauty. The trees appear mythological, as if part of

even, a leading theme, as an element of emotional sounding. Dmukhailo’s skies play different role; they have more purity. In Prospects, hills are alternating horizontals, fading into the infinite horizon, while a single tree is drawn to catch our eye before we ascend those slopes. It lends perspective to the wider scene, sun dappled between melting clouds, which become a natural continuation of the rolling hills. It is almost monumental. Ivan Dmukhailo’s talent is most revealed in his smaller, intimate works, conveying the spirit of awakening nature

a pagan cult, representing the eternal. The message for the viewers is clear: the destruction of natural ties between people and nature leads to predictable and unpredictable circumstances. To do so can bring only tragedy. This may be why he rarely featured people in his works, wishing to concentrate on the eternal and infinite rather than the temporary ‘conquerors’ of the ecosphere. The painter also created panoramic landscapes showing the sky occupying most of the canvas yet it never dominates: rather, it is a benevolent, eternal force. Many Belarusian painters considered the sky as an accompaniment or,

or the approach of winter. Wide, full rivers, narrow streams through woods and small lakes are embraced by sombre skies. We feel the coolness of the water, and the magic in bare trees. Modest in plot, we see scenes at once recognizable, though lyrical. Subdued blues, greys, lilacs and greens bring hushed peace, so that we feel the essence of this natural environment, as well as its freedom and energy. Some canvases use brighter colours and sunshine, but still retain their realism. His large still-life works have solemnity, symbolizing something greater than a collection of vases. He wrote: ‘In order for nature to open up to us and confess,

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showing us its spacious and fantastic charm, and its kindness and perfection, we must approach with a pure soul, undisturbed by daily banalities. Then, the lofty and beautiful are revealed in the most simple of phenomena’. More than ever, we feel the need for harmony in our world of cataclysms. As nature was a source of inspiration for Ivan Dmukhailo, so now his works are a source of appreciation and understanding for us, as his anniversary exhibition eloquently confirms. By Victor Mikhailov

 Today, his works can be found at the National Art Museum of Belarus, the Museum of Modern Fine Arts in Minsk, the National History Museum, Belarusian State Museum of Folk Architecture and Rural Lifestyle, Mogilev’s Regional Art Museum (of P. Maslenikov), the State Literary Museum of Yanka Kupala, and at the State Literary-Memorial Museum of Yakub Kolas. They are also kept by the Belarusian Union of Artists, and in private collections across Belarus, Ukraine, Russia, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium and elsewhere worldwide.

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Culture as a Style of Life

Carnival mood in city streets A festival of street culture was held in Grodno. The unusual, or as it is now fashionable to say, alternative, holiday gathered thousands of visitors on the ancient roadway. Many of those who appeared that evening in the city centre, broiled with impatience in expectation of surprises. After all, the art of street performance which is an ordinary phenomenon in places of traditional tourist pilgrimage is still, for all of us, a wonder. The essence of this genre is simple: without begging, unostentatiously, only in reward for a show to encourage townspeople and tourists to fork out money.

his time, more than one hundred and fifty artistes working not in academic genres gathered for the international festival Grand Teatro-2014: revived statues, geishas, angels and magicians, fiery dancers, actors of theatre of shadows and interactive improvisators, while the regional centre itself became a big theatrical scene full of exotic and fantastic characters. An increadibly high concentration of mythical and surrealistic people freely walking on roadways, as if they do it every day, added a carnival mood to the festival. Carefully prepared and directed performances let spectators know that they were dealing with professional actors, only more cheerful and accessible than at the usual theatre.

Performance at arm's length inevitably attracts any spectator, and makes part of the scenario. This occurred during a performance of Don Quixote performed by the Eye Amateur Theatre. The public not only helped a silly, but noble, character to achieve the attention of the beautiful Dulcinea sitting on a window of the second floor of a typical Grodno house, but also took an active part in the struggle against windmills. As a result, the spectators, covered with flour from head to foot, gave a standing ovation (there were no chairs in the street) to the surprised actors who managed to plunge people into an atmosphere of carelessness and impunity. The head of the theatre, Dmitry Mastyanitsa, achieved such reaction on the staging, “For street art it 2014 беларусь.belarus

is important to be a provocateur. Look around at how serious and deepened in the problems the people are. And our task is to not only to show a cheerful face, but to make people’s faces became cheerful too. How do we make it? We create a special atmosphere. We behave like children, we give spectators a chance to recollect those times when they were small too and could do everything they wanted and nobody could condemn them for that.” Traditional favourites of Grodno public are the live statues. There are always a lot of people with a mistrustful look around such actors — after all it is like a miracle: a living person, but looking like a metal idol. All people approach and as if in wait — what will be next? How to behave with such a statue? Children, as always ease the atmosphere, without ceremony, they are posing before cameras near the false sculptures. All receive pleasure from the process and even the statues are not an exception. “How wonderful it is here! I was at last year's festival in Grodno, and it seems to me that this year, it has become even more interesting. More smiles, more interest and more fairy t a l e s ! ,” shares the impression of the gold statue of street illusionist Alexey Stukin, who is light-heartedly playing with a cane which hangs in the air without any visible support. The narrowest circle of spectators gathered around a card conjurer. It is impossible to approach there, but it is possible to hear such emotions that can be used to dub a sitcom. беларусь.belarus 2014

Now all the people start laughing loudly, now they are roughly surprised. Disappointed sighs sound — these are those who, behind the back of the conjurer, casually saw that he took a card not from behind an ear, but hid it in his palm. One of the organizers of the festival, the co-ordinator of the project Live Story in Grodno Region, Sergey Ivanov, tells that this time, they managed to find actors of the eccentric genre not only from Minsk. It appears, that there are a lot of them in province, “This year, we have considerably expanded the geography of our festival. Actors from Zhlobin, Brest, Vitebsk, Skidel and Lida came here. As usual, we use the forum to acquaint Grodno residents with the creativity of one of our fellow countrymen. This time, the choice has fallen on artist Stanislav Zhukovsky, the native of Volkovyssk District who lived on the boundary of the 19th and 20th century. We have prepared an exhibition of reproductions of his landscapes, and any interested person can learn all the particularities of the artist. Here, by the way, he walks — the man in a light frock-coat.” And rea l l y, a n imposing gentleman accompanied by a fragile lady in a floor-length dress told people with readiness about how he painted Niemen and the gentry estates. And, like his teacher Levitan, he made it without sketches, directly from nature. That wonderful day came to an end with a show of fiery and neon dancers and a performance of shadow theatre — flashes of light against a background of evening darkness of the outgoing summer. A beautiful finale.

 Variety of evening leisure Grodno, 2014 cultural capital of Belarus, organizes the first balconies concert

he city’s ancient balconies and terrace rooftops have been used for the unusual open-air free concert for the first time. Laureates of Republican and international competitions performed on the saxophone, accordion, button accordion and flutes, while dance groups improvized to the music in the show windows on the ground floor. Casual passers-by in the old centre of the city became spectators to the wonderful initiative, which aims to raise the tourist attractiveness of the city on the River Niemen, while diversifying its cultural programme. Such free concerts from the Music in an Ancient City series should become a tradition, if they receive support from the audience. All participants and organizers of the first event eagerly responded to the proposal. Probably, ‘balcony concerts’ will become a traditional part of the evening cultural life of the regional centre throughout the next warm season. The event was part of Grodno — Cultural Capital action, and part of celebrations of the 70th anniversary of the formation of Grodno Region.

By Yekaterina Chernyakova

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Culture as a Style of Life

Life stories of great composers setting the standard in animation Long live Belarusian animation! Soviet realism bursting with life thanks to Old Piano Fairy Tales

elarusian animation is still alive and kicking, as evinced by the Golden Eagle Award in Yelena Petkevich’s hands, for Bach: last year named ‘Best Animated Film’ in Russia. The Belarusian-Russian project has even been taken up by the famous French Louvre, which included the series in its children’s programme. The Italians have three times invited the founders to festivals. The animated series is the brainchild of Moscow scriptwriter Irina Margolina — the General Producer of MIR. Studio, which is the main partner of Belarusfilm. Directors Irina Kodyukova and married couple Vladimir and Yelena Petkevich provide the hands-on work, with the Petkevichs bringing their daughter Olga on board for Beethoven. Yelena cannot help but praise the team, calling them ‘a rare school of animators’. She tells us, “All our directors are mature and experienced, desiring to leave their own significant legacy. When

we began work on Beethoven, we never imagined we'd be able to cover his whole life story in just 13 minutes: there's so much musical material. However, the film has been successful, so the risk was justified and has inspired us to continue. Margolina suggested that we create a film on Robert Schumann, and I agreed. The composer had an unfortunate destiny, finding it difficult to express himself. The film was also nominated for a Golden Eagle.” Yelena continues, “Margolina took an even greater risk in choosing Bach. My younger daughter, who was graduating from the conservatoire, warned me that it was a dangerous subject to attempt, since he is such an icon. In childhood, I read about Bach and was inspired by the tragedy of his life. Everything you see on screen is drawn from my own childhood impressions. I took a risk, but would never have attempted the challenge unless I felt it was achievable. Recently, Margolina suggested we try Johann Strauss and I was delighted, as I associate him with

my youth and dancing. His music was always in the background and he was an incredible composer. I began work with pleasure and fear. I've noticed that my fear is increasing over time.” “I wish I’d had more diligence myself when studying,” she admits. “Both my daughters have finished music school and my younger daughter has even been to the conservatoire, being a music theorist. I’ve embodied my mother's aspirations for myself in her. Music has always been part of my life.” I can’t help wondering how lucrative such work is, but it seems impolite to ask while discussing high art and great composers. Instead I ask if festival success brings any financial prizes. Yelena admits that none have come her way so far, although she was given a small tape player, which her daughter recommended her to give to a child. I ask what keeps her in animation and she admits that her desire to please audiences, especially children, motivates her. Yelena emphasises, “Children not 2014 беларусь.belarus

Nice miniatures please and inspire

By Natalia Stepanova

беларусь.belarus 2014

“M

ost of my soldiers are not tin, but made from modern materials like metal polymers,” explains the author of the collection, Boris Kupchinov, adding that metal figurines are not popular at present. Smiling, he notes that his hobby began with clay toys — making around 800 such soldiers in the past, which were shown as part of his first exhibition (Boris was twelve year old then). The master does not know exactly how many figurines he has made; probably, there are several thousand of them. The man has no plan to count them, as his major task is his artistry. Mr. Kupchinov reads a lot before

By Natalia Stepanova

Pavel Chuyko

only respond to the beautiful images but hear the music and learn a great deal. I’m very interested in this. Even when a scene seems impossible to create, we manage it, and it turns out just as we hoped. I’m still surprised at how ‘easy’ it looks, with no sign of the true labour behind the process. Only artists of the highest level, who know music perfectly, take part.” Even the adviser to Fairy Tales, Moscow State Conservatory Professor Yelena Dolinskaya, is surprised at the nuances of creativity embodied in the series. Yelena Petkevich recollects a recent trip to a festival in Italy, although she usually avoids such visits, being too busy or too modest to bother. She enjoyed herself very much, answering various questions (including on the style of trees in the animations); she received a great many congratulations and much praise. Belarusian musical critics have truly admired the series and urge the wider broadcast of the wonderful animations, lamenting that few have yet viewed them. It could be an idea to show them in schools, during music lessons. Director of Animation Igor Galinovsky assures us, “Belarusfilm has applied to the Ministry of Education, and to Pachatkovaya School Publishing House, to bring the series onto the junior school curriculum, since it is so wonderful and joyful. Everyone should watch Old Piano Fairy Tales.”

Any Soviet boy dreamt of tin musketeers, grenadiers, dragoons and lances, but even modern children are fond of toy soldiers, despite enormous cartoon Spider-Men or Minions. Of course, it’s impossible to play with them at the National History Museum, but everyone can look. The local exhibition — On Bravery, Heroism and Glory — is not merely entertaining — it’s rather educational too.

beginning work on a new model. He prefers historical books published in the 1960-1970s by authoritative academicians. Afterwards, he surfs the Internet to be sure that he’s on the right path. The man admits that the Net contains a lot of false information while he, in turn, aims to ensure his work matches the original ‘soldiers’. Mr. Kupchinov’s figurines are around 4-5cm tall (scales ranging from 1/30 to 1/50). The master loves the Medieval times, focusing mostly on the events which took place on Belarusian territory and, mostly, in Gomel Region, where he was born. Among his works are diverse composite pictures: a plot from The Tale of Bygone Ages (Duke Vladimir’s fight against Radimichi) or a battle near Love, where Bogdan Khmelnitsky’s troop was smashed. His collection includes sculptures of many famous personalities: Napoleon Bonaparte, Mikhail Kutuzov, Jeanne d’Arc and Genghis Khan. Mr. Kupchinov says that it’s not a problem to create any figurine — even Spider-Man. However, he has no plans to change his focus. The master is faithful to his military and historical miniatures which enjoy much demand. He admits that less than a dozen composite scenarios are presented at the show as the remaining works are kept at museums around the world, including the ones in Russia.

MOSAIC

 Malevich exhibition The biggest exhibition for 30 years, devoted to the creative work of the famous avant-gardist Kazimir Malevich (1879-1935) whose name had added lustre to Belarus, has been opened in the British capital. The exposition in 12 halls of the famous Tate Modern gallery will last until October 26th.

 Vanessa Mae returns with new hits The princess of four strings plans to conquer again the hearts of Belarusians with masterpieces of world music in contemporary and techno-arrangements

emarkably, Vanessa Mae was born on the same day as one of the greatest violinist of all time — Niccolò Paganini. She was born on October 27th, but almost one hundred years later. When she was 13 years old, she became an entrant

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eading stage masters, Lyudmila Khitrik and Konstantin Geronik, became the winners of the top prize. In June, these dancers were also awarded high state awards — Frantsisk Skorina medals. The first award of the competition was won by the ballet soloist Takatoshi Machiyama, while Yana Shtangei, a graduate of the Belarusian State Cho-

in the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘youngest musician, who has performed all the violin concerts by Tchaikovsky and Beethoven’. Vanessa Mai is a true cosmopolitan, being Chinese on her mother’s side and Thai on her father’s. She is a British subject, yet records her discs in Los Angeles. Vanessa gained international success in 1995, when her fourth (in succession) and first (in pop stylistics) record — The Violin Player — ‘conquered’ the peaks of the most prestigious hit parades of the planet. Over four months the album went gold, with a circulation of over 8 million copies. reographic Gymnasium-College and a participant of Junior Eurovision-2013 Song Contest, came second. The mastery of the entrants was assessed by the artistic director of the Berlin State Ballet, Vladimir Malakhov, the chair of the jury of the International Ballet Competition in Seoul, Geun-hye Park, prima ballet dancer of the Rome Opera ballet troupe, Letizia Giuliani, artistic director of the International OTR Ballet Competition in Vienna, Evelyn Teri, and others. The jury was headed by the outstanding dancer — artistic director of the Greek National Opera Ballet, Irek Mukhamedov.

t the exhibition entitled Malevich more than 400 pictures are presented in chronological order. The works have been brought from Russia, the USA, the Netherlands, and France. In London famous copies of Black Square, delivered from Moscow and St. Petersburg, will be shown for the first time.

According to the curator of the exposition, Achim Borchardt-Hume, this is the first serious exhibition of Malevich in the United Kingdom. “Visitors can follow evolution of the creative work of the painter. We are very glad that we can show the brilliant exhibition of works of the genius Malevich in London, including the famous Black Square, which underlies modern abstract art,” the arts critic notes. Kazimir Malevich is the founder of suprematism — one of the earliest demonstrations of abstract art of contemporary history. In 1919 Malevich came to Vitebsk as a teacher of the Folk School of Arts, organized by Marc Chagall. Here ideas of suprematism, which had been theoretically and conceptually worked out by Malevich by that time, were further developed. Black Square, Black Circle, Red Square, Red Cavalry Riding, as well as Suprematist Composition which went under the hammer at Sotheby’s auction for $60m in November of 2008, are the best known works of the painter. 2014 беларусь.belarus