A new photography exhibition titled “Sa izvora duhovnosti” by Goran Sivački is set to open on September 10, 2026, at the Dom kulture Gračanica. The exhibition, which will run until October 1, features a collection of photographs capturing some of Serbia’s most significant monasteries, including Hilandar, Visoki Dečani, and Gračanica, among others. Sivački’s work seeks to convey not only the architectural splendor of these sites but also the spiritual essence they embody.
The exhibition is a culmination of Sivački’s extensive photographic journey through these revered locations, which also include the Peć Patriarchate, Bogorodica Ljeviška, and the Holy Archangels near Prizren. Additional sites such as Studenica, Žiča, Sopoćani, Đurđevi Stupovi, Petrova Church, Mileševa, Ravanica, and Manasija, as well as monasteries from the Fruška Gora and Ovčarsko-Kablarska Gorge, are also featured. Sivački, who has been a professional photographer for 30 years and is a member of ULUPUDS and the board of the Serbian Journalists Association, expressed that these monasteries offered him a sense of peace and tranquility, which inspired the exhibition’s title.
The photographs are not merely artistic representations but are intended to capture the ongoing life within these monastic complexes, the atmosphere of the spaces, and the intangible spiritual experiences they offer to visitors. Sivački’s images include architectural details, frescoes, and moments of monastic life, providing a comprehensive view of the monasteries’ cultural and historical significance.
The exhibition’s material was initially created in collaboration with Jazak Water, where Sivački documented the spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage of Serbian monasteries for their blog. These photographs have now been compiled into an authorial exhibition presented in large format.
Serbian monasteries have long been recognized as vital cultural and historical sites, reflecting the country’s rich religious heritage. They play a crucial role in preserving national identity and have been the focus of previous exhibitions and cultural events. The current exhibition by Sivački continues this tradition, offering a visual exploration of these spiritual landmarks.
The exhibition’s impact on local culture and community involvement remains to be seen, as public engagement may be influenced by competing events or a lack of awareness. However, the exhibition provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the spiritual and cultural depth of Serbia’s monastic heritage through Sivački’s lens.
