Belarusian Madonna
“Belarusian Madonna” is a conceptual photo series by Olga Tenigina, created to mark March 25 — Belarus’ unofficial Freedom Day.
It is a visual exploration of female vulnerability, inner strength, exile, memory, and love for one’s homeland.
The protagonist is Lidia Novik, an activist who survived raids and arrest.
The project became part of her healing process. A veil was used as a symbol of the Madonna, cross-stitch on the skin as a mark of pain and remembrance.
The lyrics of the song “Polonaise — Farewell to the Homeland” were projected onto her body in Belarusian.
The red stripe backdrop was inspired by the protest art of Artyom Loskutov.
This project speaks of dignity, voice, and freedom that cannot be silenced.
SYMBOLISM:
– Veil: as the image of the Madonna and a young girl
– Cross-stitch on the skin: as a trace, memory, and pain
– Red stripes on white background: inspired by the protest art of Artyom Loskutov
– Lyrics of the song “Polonaise — Farewell to the Homeland” in Belarusian, projected onto the protagonist’s body
