Horytsvit 9

If we were to describe this camp in a metaphor, the most fitting image would be the phoenix, burning up and rising again from the ashes…

However well you plan a camp, when 26 universes meet, something unique will always emerge unexpectedly!

And sometimes creating something new means overcoming challenges. The turn of the season, young bodies short of vitamins, illness, the discomfort of settling into an atmosphere of calm after a life full of stress…

The new questions life posed demanded sincerity, trust and support from all the participants. And you’d think that sounds wonderful and simple!

But in Ukrainian reality, where people are used to relentless daily strain, it’s a task for the advanced class.

To trust, to accept life’s imperfection, to see the value of small steps, to be flexible – this is a daring recipe for a healing potion that burns at first because it is so unfamiliar, but the very next moment gives you the strength to take off.

And this renewed energy can flit from poetry evenings to physical theatre, from ringing songs around the fire to fantastical masks, from cosy hugs to lively teamwork and heated discussions. Or it can fly far away and form a universe of its own. That world may take shape from clay, plaster and paint, but the forces of creation themselves are pure inspiration!

Once again we marvel at the potential of art as a means of therapy and recovery, and once again we feel heartfelt gratitude for the chance to build a community with values of mutual support and respect.

May creativity keep building bridges between people and helping them through any trial.