Dystopia
Dystopia is a piece of social fiction encouraging the viewer to take a more conscious stance towards the environment. These artworks reflect Ms. Marina Fedorova’s take on the society’s adverse ecological footprint, as well as the pressing environmental issues of the present day, such as the need to conserve biodiversity, preserve the link between man and nature, and restore the meaningful spiritual connection with our true source.
The Artist’s works remind us of our original unity and synergy with nature, juxtaposing it against the never-ending chase after desirable items which, once used and no longer wanted, are carelessly discarded in the nearest garbage bin. Dump is the perfect, if rather straightforward, illustration of this: the female figure, having run its course, turned obsolete, or simply no longer exciting, becomes just another piece of garbage. Little by little we start treating each other as such disposable items, mercilessly exploiting natural resources and human relations alike.
The painting subjects reveal the social and spiritual role of female protagonists. Women occupy a special place here for a good reason: since times immemorial, they symbolised fertility and the life-giving force, passing on the ancient traditions. The woman as mother and divine principle is the central figure of the Trash Madonna painting. She is pictured with folded hands, no longer holding a baby. Her face is covered with a gas mask – no bright eyes or tender smile to be seen. She is now the patron of the new poisonous times.
The sculptural composition allows the Madonna to step beyond the confines of a two-dimensional painting. It becomes real. Walking around the sculpture, one can contemplate it from many different angles. This symbolic corporeality of the artistic vision becomes yet another reflection of reality, expressing the Artist’s reaction to the current trends.
Aleksandra Danilovskikh
Art Historian, Art Expert