Totems, 2019

Originally, totems symbolized the relationship between humans, their mythical ancestors, and nature. Those created by Alicja Biała and Iwo Borkowicz embody the opposite. They visualize the destruction humankind has inflicted upon the natural world.

Since May 16, 2019, this unusual installation has been on view at Poznań’s Art Haven. Six hand-painted sculptures represent six crimes against Mother Earth: deforestation, water-wasting food production, plastic pollution, smog, overfishing, and the extinction of wild animal populations. Together, they form a three-dimensional image covering nearly 400 square meters.

The patterns and colors characteristic of Alicja Biała’s work illustrate research findings on the state of the natural environment. Each totem is equipped with a QR code linking to the data sources used by the artists to create these monumental symbols of human activity.

The work was created in cooperation with the Wielkopolska Society for the Encouragement of Fine Arts.