Capturing Religious Harmony: A Photo Exhibition

Unlike any other days, a uniquely different view appeared at the Jusuf Kalla Library UIII on December 2-6, 2024. A photo exhibition was showcased as part of the 3rd Symposium of the Faculty of Social Sciences (FOSS). Held for first time ever by the faculty, the exhibition carried the theme "Living Together: A Visual Journey of Indonesia's Religious Harmony" and featured the works of three FOSS fellows.

Elis Zuliati, Ph.D., a fellow at the FOSS photography program, was thrilled as she reflected on the opportunity to contribute to this ground-breaking exhibition. Tasked with capturing moments of interfaith encounters in Indonesia, she described her journey as an eye-opening experience. “It turned out to be very interesting,” she said.

Among her most memorable experiences was documenting the daily life of a group of young priests in Yogyakarta. Initially apprehensive, she admitted to being unsure about how to approach them. “At first, I didn’t know how to communicate with them,” she confessed. But her fears quickly dissolved upon meeting them. “It turned out they were amusing and warm-hearted. They even invited me to visit their dorm,” she said with a smile.

Through her lens, Elis discovered a profound harmony between these priest candidates and the local community—something she had never witnessed before. One moment in particular struck her deeply: a Muslim woman wearing a hijab, cooking side by side with the priests in their kitchen. “I never imagined such a connection. They were so close, sharing meals and stories like family,” she recounted.

This encounter not only challenged Elis’s perceptions but also allowed her to witness the threads of unity woven into the fabric of Indonesian society. “I had the chance to talk to the local community, and they amazed me with their openness and kindness,” she said.

For Elis, photography became a powerful medium to tell these stories of coexistence. “Through my lens, I could see their expressions up close, capturing moments where harmony transcends differences in religion, culture, and beliefs,” she reflected. “It’s a perspective that wide angles and close-ups alike revealed beautifully.”

FOSS Dean, Philips J. Vermonte, Ph.D., highlighted the importance of this exhibition. “A picture speaks a thousand words,” he said, emphasizing the unique power of visual storytelling to complement traditional academic narratives. He expressed hope that this exhibition, the first of its kind, would become a yearly tradition during the symposium. “Next year, we’ll bring a new theme and a new team, but always with a focus on reflecting the essence of Indonesian society.”

This inaugural exhibition, brimming with raw emotion and vivid storytelling, served as a strong reminder of the harmony that can thrive amid diversity. For Elis and all who experienced it, the journey was not just about capturing photos; it’s all about capturing the spirit of living together.