Untitled 2022

This piece, created by Alevtyna Kakhidze, presents a figure standing amidst plants, a stark depiction in ink. It's dominated by two symbolic elements: the burning branch and the rooted figure. Fire, across cultures, signifies destruction but also purification and renewal. The figure, choosing to "stand as plants," evokes the ancient motif of the Tree of Life, symbolizing rootedness and resilience. This motif echoes in various forms throughout history. In ancient Greece, trees were sacred, embodying life's enduring spirit. The burning branch could be seen as a modern interpretation of the fall of man. Here, the rooted figure makes a conscious decision to not run from the threat of the fire. It speaks of humanity's deep-seated connection to nature and our collective psyche, and the need for resilience. The raw emotion in the written words underscores this, engaging us on a primal level, tapping into our shared fears and hopes. As this image shows, symbols constantly resurface, adapting to new contexts while retaining their profound emotional power.