Lake Baikal in Siberia is the oldest and largest freshwater lake on the planet. In winter, temperatures drop as low as -40°C and the lake becomes a vast frozen plain. Crossing the lake can be a hazardous journey as the ice comes under huge pressure causing it to either break apart exposing the frigid water below or crush together creating large jagged hummocks. To help travellers across the ice, the locals mark out an ice road by drilling holes and ‘planting’ small pine trees that act as markers, ‘beacons’ guiding the way.

Captivated by the surreal beauty of these beacons, award winning Irish photographer Daragh Muldowney returned to Lake Baikal over three winters in the hope of documenting them. Their organic forms emerging from the mist or appearing unexpectedly on the distant horizon, each tree is a benign presence in an otherwise barren world, offering hope and safe passage.

Beacons is a new photobook and exhibition which celebrates the small pine trees found along the ice roads of Lake Baikal.

Sanctuary

Signs along the way
Each one perfectly placed
Guiding like Beacons

To be lost and then returned
That is pure sanctuary