New Dawn

In my project New Dawn, I identify colonialism as an important historical cause of the current global concentration of prosperity and power and investigate its impact on the modern individual worldwide.

I turn on the tap and have water, prepare a meal and have access to medical care if needed. Why is this not possible for everyone on our planet despite increased global prosperity? How is it that there is such an extreme concentration of power and wealth? I happen to live in a place on earth where life is not a struggle against hunger and thirst.

In my project New Dawn, I identify colonialism as an important historical cause of the current global concentration of prosperity and power and investigate its impact on the modern individual worldwide. Colonialism laid the foundations for the current structures of international trade. New Dawn is a story of hope, and the belief that a shift in our paradigm is possible, which can lead to a more balanced distribution of wealth. Sculptural images serve as a reflection of the current global tension, individual vulnerability and personal desire for balance and stability. 

The storyline is supported by two figures from film and literature who represent the two extremes on the scale of power distribution: Gulliver (Gulliver's Travels, chapter 1 – illustrations, book from 1726) and Scott (The Incredible Shrinking Man – movie from 1957). Gulliver – as a giant – uses his power to influence society, while Scott – who begins to shrink daily after exposure to a radioactive cloud – loses all power over his own life.