Nature allowed to invade Catholic Church in symbol of ecological modernism destroying the Faith

A forest in a historic church. Gdansk's "Forest" is a unique project

Within the historic walls of Gdansk's St. John's Church, you can feel like you're in a forest. A space has just opened there, designed for all those seeking peace, quiet, and contact with nature in the summer hustle and bustle of the city. From June 27 to July 5, 2025, the cultural center on the Baltic Sea invites visitors to visit a unique art installation called "LeŚnia." It is a space that combines elements of art, ecology, and sensory experience. The project is a response to sensory overload and the need for a short break from the intense rhythm of urban life.

An oasis of calm amidst the festival bustle

At a time when the Tricity attracts crowds of Open'er festival participants, the St. John's Centre becomes a place of alternative relaxation. "LeŚnia" offers a space of tranquility where you can breathe deeply, listen to the sounds of nature, and immerse yourself in a forest-like atmosphere. It is not a typical exhibition, but rather an open, dynamic installation that changes with the visitors. You can sit, lie down, stroll among the trees, or linger for a while. Each visit here is intended to be a unique, individual experience.

"LeŚnia" as a clash of Gothic architecture and lush greenery

The project was realized in a historically and aesthetically charged space. The Gothic architecture of the temple was juxtaposed with vegetation and natural materials, creating a scenography with great visual power. The interior of the temple has taken on a new dimension, and its monumentality is emphasized by the contrast with the organic forms of the plants. This juxtaposition opens the field for new interpretations of architecture and the relationship between humans and nature. The experience of "LeŚnia" engages all the senses. The soundscape created by Marcin Dymiter evokes a state of tranquility, and the fragrant compositions by Bogdan Wójcik (vetiver) complete the impression of the forest's presence. The light display designed by Maciej Knigawka draws visitors' attention and shapes their perception of the space, creating an atmosphere that changes throughout the day.

Artisticness and sustainability

The installation is enriched with performative and musical elements that appear in unexpected ways. At various moments, visitors can encounter artistic activities prepared by Kasia Ustowska-Gmerek or live musical interventions performed by Antoni Michnik, Katarzyna Podpora, and the NeoQuartet ensemble. Such moments are not announced in advance, which lends the whole experience a fleeting, personal feel. "LeŚnia" was realized with sustainability in mind. The plants used in the installation will not be destroyed or discarded – some were borrowed, and the others will be moved to private gardens after the event. The organizers emphasize that, despite the temporary nature of the event, its ecological footprint has been minimized.

"LeŚnia" – A New Look at holy space

At the St. John's Centre, which has been managed by the Baltic Sea Cultural Centre for three decades, artistic experiments and activities regularly take place that redefine its function. "LeŚnia" is another attempt to give this space new meaning by connecting the spirituality of the place with the need for peace and contact with nature. "LeŚnia" can be viewed from June 27 to July 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. (on June 29, from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) at the Johanniter Center at 50 Świętojańska Street. Admission is free.

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History

The church was largely destroyed during the war in 1945. The previously removed interior furnishings were stored in St. Mary's Church.

The church was renovated on the outside, but the interior remains in ruins. In 1991, the Roman Catholic authorities took back the Church which had been lost to Protestants in 1559. In 1995, under an agreement with the Archdiocese of Gdańsk, St. John's Church was transferred to the Baltic Sea Cultural Center (Nadbałtyckie Centrum Kultury) for use. Holy Masses for cultural workers continue to be held on Sundays at 12 noon in Kashubian, German, and Polish.