The Self-shells are three biomorphic sculptures of bright red color in
the form of seashells with golden accents in the form of an ear, a
mouth on a lock and an eye.
The work is the result of internal experiences caused by the COVID-19
epidemic. Self-isolation, remote work, limited physical social contacts
served as depressing factors and forced many to hide in their own
impenetrable shell.
Borrowing the shape of shells that protect the soft body of a mollusk
from predators, I illustrate how people protect each other being at
home and use only vision, hearing and speech as communication
through a digital environment. Thus, ignoring the smell, taste and
touch inherent in communication in the real world, but not virtual.
The Self-shells series embodies considerations on the acute lack of
physical communication and full-fledged exchange of non-verbal
information, using all the senses inherent in us by nature. How we
become less sensuous to each other, but more sensitive and
vulnerable. The scarlet color of the sculptures symbolise the extreme
point of tension and intensity, close to an emotional explosion.
The name of each of the shells refers to the eastern wisdom and the
composition of 3 monkeys covering their eyes (Midzaru), ears
(Kikazaru) and mouth (Iwazaru) with their paws, which represent the
idea of non-doing evil and detachment from the untrue.
