Plenair, Chechen Republic, 2021

An interesting and original experience was a trip to the Chechen Republic. You come with a desire to understand the culture, you find yourself in a completely unusual environment. I can’t believe that our country is so diverse. There is a very different worldview, as if a completely different region. The first curious glances of passers-by, acquaintance with local students, communication ... It's not like home. Clothing is a constant reminder of being in a different cultural environment. A few days in Grozny, continuing work in the museum, in the mountains. It captures the imagination. The influence of tourism was felt on the mountain lake, there were no more strict rules and greetings from the locals. We've already been struck by nature. Early rises, dawns, walks in the mountains. Road trips around. The return to Grozny was the end of our journey. It was the week of the first encounter with a completely different universe. After such trips, you cease to be the same, you grow the desire to see everything new and new, move forward and notice more. Adding to this thought was the study of the diary of a Russian soldier who had been in captivity several centuries ago. At the same time, with genuine interest immersed in the life of Chechnya, in the language, in tradition, learned mores. The book was a gift from the flea market, where there was a lively trade. Very thin brochure deeply responded and helped to summarize.