My practice of photography always involves story telling, with the desired purpose of portraying a different perspective of the world, a hidden world, that many people tend to ignore.

Nicolae Pitis, or Saint Nicholas from Tara Lapusului, Romania, as the world knows him, has stunned Europe with his striking voice and music. Recently, he was declared “UNESCO monument”, in other words joined the cultural values amongst the greatest in the world, a heritage of mankind.

He learned the secrets of singing from his father, who likewise has learned the secrets of traditional Romanian music and dance from his ancestors. His voice was a blessing in carrying on the traditions of the nation.

After his wife died, at the age of 82, his focus turned completely towards music, his 100 sheep, and his small house at the peak of the mountain.

His music travelled all around the world and will continue, to do so, until he will no longer have the power.  He admits that his music is not for making a profit, his intention is to continue the tradition and keep the “Doina of Maramures” (music from a specific region of Romania) alive.

The series of images was taken in his ‘oasis’ where he spends most of his time and a place where he finds inspiration; a place called home. A place, that also taught me about modesty and courage of enjoying the life without any concerns. Nicolae Pitis is a great example of creating his own reality without any concerns for the next day.