Life in harmony with nature

Having grown up on a sustainable farm in Poland, I’ve developed a close relationship and affinity to the natural world. Our land sustained us and, provided my family with the sustenance and nourishment that we needed to be happy and healthy. From seed to fruiting plant, our livelihood depended on the cycle of life. Through this, I learned that by taking care of your surroundings, nature will reward you in kind. There aren’t many things that are more satisfying than literally picking the fruits of your labour. 

Being outdoors and discovering the abundant beauty of our planet, is what makes me happiest. The farm that I lived on, is situated atop a hill, surrounded by dense forest. The crops that we grew would regularly attract local wildlife. Simply observing the animals in their natural habitat, would usher a sense of amazement and wonder. The manner in which intricate ecosystems, not only sustain themselves but thrive, is inspiring. It seems an impossible balancing act, and yet, nature always seems to find a way.

Leaving home to live abroad, I quickly realised that many people don’t share that same sense of connection towards nature. The fast pace at which modern society functions, ensures that many people are continuously distracted with human-centric affairs, that have nothing to do with the natural world. For all the benefits that technological advancements bring, I feel that it often comes at the cost of our relationship with nature; and consequently, ourselves. 

  • Weeding

  • Enormous potatoes

  • Lettuce plantation

  • Baby deer in the bushes

  • Picking wild elderberry

  • Nature design

  • All from the garden

  • Raspberries

When I travel, I’m constantly learning new things about myself and the world. Exploring foreign lands, where you don’t speak the native language(s), and are not well-versed in local culture, is exciting, but can also be a daunting challenge. At first, it can easily push you out of your comfort zone and into situations that you’re not accustomed to dealing with.  Although it may be uncomfortable at times, I’ve learned that these moments can have a profound and lasting impact. Awkward interactions can lead to unlikely friendships, unexpected obstacles can test your resolve and help you develop as a person. These experiences also have a tendency to expose the kind-hearted nature and generosity of man.

I feel so fortunate to have already had the opportunity to meet so many people from all around the world. To have experienced the diversity of humanity through its many cultures and traditions, and to have discovered many hidden treasures along the way. Tasting new dishes that redefined my perspective on food. Listening to new kinds of music and being part of unique celebratory customs. It’s all so very different, but at the heart of it all I found a commonality in the form love, fun, compassion and generosity. It’s something that we all desire and share, no matter where we’re from.

Traveling has also revealed some darker truths that can’t be ignored. Caused by a more sinister side of man. A societal cancer is growing ever-more powerful, because it cheats and takes advantage of the vulnerable. Corporate greed corrupts and destroys life. I spent some time living close to Mata Atlantica, in Brazil. Here I saw the aftermath of a deforestation project that has left only 10% of what was once the second largest forest on planet Earth. To think that we’re even capable of such destruction is heartbreaking.

The unfortunate reality is that present-day society is not structured to be compatible with this planet. As a collective, we behave like parasites, passively observing the deterioration of our own habitats; in the name of greed. We take more than we give back. It’s unsustainable and will have dire consequences for future generations.

I take pictures of nature because I want to capture and share the beauty of our world. With my photographs, I hope to inspire people to spend more time outside. To encourage them to fight for its preservation. We are one with this planet. To lose to touch with it, is to lose touch with ourselves.

 

People & Food

Everyone has their own path and their own way of making pancakes!

Meeting people from all over the world expands the palate. It inevitably introduces you to new flavours and styles of cooking. It’s amazing to see how cultural identities are reflected in food so distinguishably. The culinary world is fascinating and a product of so much more than just food. Cuisine is the culmination of cooking techniques and traditions that have been passed down through generations. The distinctive ingredients and spices that are unique to a particular region can make a dish so special. 

Food says a lot about people. It allows you to express yourself in any way you want.

That’s one of the reasons food and people are so important to me: one can’t exist without the other. 

I never forget those who taught me new recipes! Food is life!

 

Do you feel inspired?

If my pictures and stories have caught your interest, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We can discuss a potential collaboration and I will be more than happy to answer any and all of your questions!

Together, we’ll create something beautiful and unique!