The Unbearable Weight of Being

This artwork serves as an exploration of the sense of burden experienced throughout one's journey in life. It delves into the intricate facets of memory, responsibility, and the obligations that accompany aspects of our reality. This piece intimately reflects on the gravity of existence, highlighting how this weight influences one's actions, perceptions of the world, and self-identity. The composition of this artwork unfolds in two distinct parts. The first part portrays the sensation of being tethered to the burdens of existence, while the second part channels emotions of anger and despair towards the source of this burden. It encapsulates the relentless desire to break free, embracing an optimistic outcome that embodies a relentless pursuit of liberty and a newfound sense of lightness and audacity to act boldly.
This artwork transcends the personal realm, utilising symbolism to document my unique connection to this weight. It incorporates a direct reference to the Russian
invasion of my homeland. The items destroyed in the second part are representative of the common belongings that Russian military forces plundered from Ukrainian homes during their occupation, whether after torturing of people living there or after the devastation of towns and the suffering of their inhabitants.
Remarkably, the hammer employed in the second part of the composition was graciously loaned to me from a permanent museum collection in Moskosel, boasting a history spanning nearly a century. This artifact carries profound cultural significance, serving as a symbol of resilience in the face of diverse challenges and circumstances. Furthermore, fire emerges as a potent symbol of purification, echoing the age-old tradition of fire ceremonies. It symbolises the beacon of hope and illustrates the unwavering determination for freedom. The artwork is an introspection, weaving together elements of personal experience, cultural heritage, and symbolism to convey the weight of existence and the enduring
pursuit of liberation and hope.