Sculptural composition "Belarusians Abroad" is a significant monument installed on the banks of the Svisloch River in Minsk, opposite the historic Trinity Suburb. Opened on September 8, 2017, as part of the World Belarusians Arts Festival, it is dedicated to all Belarusians living outside their homeland and symbolizes the unity of the Belarusian people, regardless of where they live.
The monument is a bronze wheel about 3 meters in diameter, mounted on a massive granite boulder. The wheel is an ancient Slavic symbol of the sun, the earthly circle of life, and eternity. In this composition, it also symbolizes forward movement, the pursuit of independence, prosperity, and the well-being of Belarus. The branching traditional towel with a national Belarusian ornament that wraps around the wheel represents the cultural heritage and spiritual connection of Belarusians, wherever they may be. This sculpture carries deep symbolism, reflecting not only historical roots but also hopes for the future.
The creation of the monument was timed to coincide with several important dates: the 950th anniversary of Minsk, the 500th anniversary of Belarusian book printing, and the 135th anniversary of the birth of the great Belarusian poets Yanka Kupala and Yakub Kolas. The authors of the project are sculptor Alexander Finsky, a laureate of the State Prize of the Republic of Belarus, and architect Armen Sardarov, Doctor of Architecture and Professor. Their work is reflected in powerful symbolism, conveying the eternal connection of Belarusians with their native land.
The official opening of the monument was accompanied by speeches from high-ranking officials. Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei noted that the composition symbolizes the difficult path of Belarus's sons and daughters, who, having found themselves in various parts of the world, managed to preserve their love for their native culture and country. According to him, the wheel symbolizes the forward movement toward strengthening the nation's independence and welfare, as well as striving for unity.
This commemorative sign is unique. As Oksana Solopova, head of the "Belarusians of Moscow" organization, emphasized, Belarus is the only country in the world that has erected such a monument, symbolizing respect and remembrance for its compatriots abroad. The monument reflects the shared hopes of Belarusians, no matter where they are.
The monument's location is also no coincidence. As Armen Sardarov noted, archaeological finds in the Svisloch area included ancient wheels, which adds further historical significance to the site. For Belarusians abroad, this monument serves as a symbol that they are remembered and valued at home.
The sculpture "Belarusians Abroad" is not only a tribute to Belarusian diasporas but also a symbol of hope and the pursuit of a better future. The eternal movement of the wheel and the towel with traditional ornament remind of the importance of preserving national identity, regardless of distance. The monument is also an expression of gratitude to all Belarusians who have contributed to the development of the country and its culture, regardless of where they live today.
This composition, filled with deep symbolism, remains an important element of Belarus's cultural heritage, its historical memory, and a reminder of the unchanging connection between people and their native land.