"The City of Berdiansk Before the War – Photography Exhibition by Mariia Yesionova"

It is with both a heavy heart and immense pride that I present my latest photography exhibition: “The City of Berdiansk Before the War.” This collection of images captures the vibrancy and life of a city that, at the time, was a place of peace, culture, and community—elements that were so precious and beloved by the people who called it home.

As a photographer, I had the privilege of documenting the essence of Berdiansk, a coastal city in southeastern Ukraine, long before the tragic conflict that would forever alter its fate. These photographs serve as a tribute to the lives that once flourished here—lives full of hope, joy, and warmth, where every corner of the city buzzed with stories, friendships, and a shared sense of belonging. This exhibition is an attempt to capture a time when the streets were filled with laughter, the sea breeze carried dreams, and the town itself seemed like a sanctuary from the noise of the world.

Berdiansk was, and still is, a gem of the Azov Sea coast. A place where local Ukrainians, Jewish communities, and people of various backgrounds lived side by side, contributing to a rich tapestry of culture and tradition. Through the lens of my camera, I aimed to document not just the scenic beauty of the area—the sun-kissed beaches, the quiet streets, the bustling marketplaces—but also the warmth of the people, their stories, and their ways of life.

I had the privilege of capturing many intimate moments—families celebrating birthdays in the park, friends gathered at cafes, fishermen heading out for their daily catch, and children playing in the streets, full of laughter and joy. These fleeting moments were not just photographs to me; they were the pulse of a community.

In Berdiansk, the Jewish community, with its deep historical roots, added a unique layer to the city’s identity. I was fortunate enough to witness and photograph the incredible sense of resilience and joy among the Jewish families there. The elderly, the young, and everyone in between were united by the shared experience of cultural pride, a connection to their history, and an unwavering spirit of survival. The vibrancy of their celebrations, the togetherness of their gatherings, and the strength of their traditions were a testament to their enduring presence and the richness they brought to Berdiansk.

Before the war, Berdiansk was a city that reveled in the simple pleasures of life. People walked the streets without fear, met friends for coffee without looking over their shoulders, and spent afternoons by the sea. The children played freely, their laughter filling the air as they ran along the sandy shores or rode their bikes through the leafy streets.

Markets were bustling with life, the aroma of fresh produce and handmade goods mingling in the open air.

The sound of music often echoed through the squares as people gathered for festivals and cultural events. Life was peaceful, joyful, and full of promise.

What strikes me now, in hindsight, is just how lucky we were to experience these moments. We were living in an era where the world felt safe, where ordinary, everyday life was filled with extraordinary moments of happiness. It is these moments, these faces, these shared experiences that I want to remember and share with you.

In times of uncertainty and conflict, it becomes even more important to remember how things once were. As Ukrainians, as human beings, we must hold on to the memory of what we had—the beauty, the community, the love for life. The exhibition is not just a personal reflection, but a tribute to the people of Berdiansk, whose lives were irrevocably changed. It’s an act of remembrance, an effort to preserve the identity and soul of a city that will never be the same.

Through my photographs, I hope to share a vision of the past that is sometimes difficult to grasp in the face of current events. I want people to understand that, before the war, there was a place where people from all walks of life lived, thrived, and enjoyed their days in the most beautiful ways imaginable. It is a celebration of community and life, a call to honor what was and to never forget the beauty that once graced the streets of Berdiansk.

This exhibition is a small attempt to offer a glimpse of the happiness and resilience that existed in this city, not just before the war, but in the hearts of its people. It is my sincere hope that these images will be a source of reflection, inspiration, and a reminder of how precious life truly is—especially in the face of adversity.

I invite you all to join me in this journey through memory, to walk through the streets of a Berdiansk that was full of life, and to remember what we must fight to preserve: peace, community, and the joy of simply being.

Mariia Yesionova is a talented Ukrainian photographer whose work captures the essence of everyday life and the beauty of Ukrainian cities, especially before the war. Known for her keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for culture and history, Mariia’s photography tells compelling stories about her homeland and its people.

In her upcoming exhibition "The City of Berdiansk Before the War", Mariia showcases a collection of photos taken during the summer months of 2019 and 2020, when Berdiansk was still a peaceful, thriving city. During these years, she captured the streets, the people, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city, offering a unique look at life before the upheaval of war.

Her images focus on the simple, yet profound moments of daily life in Berdiansk. From the lively streets lined with cafes to the tranquil moments by the Azov Sea, Mariia’s photos reveal the rich cultural heritage and the close-knit community that made Berdiansk a special place. Her work also highlights the city’s unique blend of nature, architecture, and the warmth of its residents.

Through her lens, Mariia captures more than just images – she preserves the spirit and soul of Berdiansk as it was, before the war changed everything. The exhibition is a tribute to the city’s history and a heartfelt reminder of the beauty and resilience of the people who lived there.

Mariia Yesionova’s photography invites viewers to reflect on what has been lost and to appreciate the importance of preserving memories of peaceful times.

In 2026, the exhibition “The City of Berdiansk Before the War” will be touring across the United States, offering a chance for Ukrainian communities to experience the beauty and resilience of Berdiansk before the war. These locations were selected due to the significant Ukrainian diaspora in each city. The exhibition will not only showcase the photographs but also serve as a reminder of the rich culture, history, and sense of community that once defined Berdiansk.

The Ukrainian community in Buffalo, New York, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The vibrant Ukrainian-American population has contributed greatly to the city's cultural landscape through churches, cultural centers, and organizations. One key institution is the Ukrainian American Civic Center, which fosters Ukrainian traditions and hosts events, including language classes, dance performances, and holiday celebrations.

In 2026, Buffalo will host the exhibition "The City of Berdiansk Before the War" at the Ukrainian American Civic Center. This exhibition will showcase photographs of Berdiansk, Ukraine, capturing the vibrant life and culture of the city before the war. It will offer visitors a glimpse into the community's past, highlighting the beauty and resilience of Ukrainian life.