PRUSSIAN BLUE
2023
2023
Prussian Blue, 2023
Canvas, matches, glue, acrylic
170 × 90 cm
The basis of this artwork is the history of the pigment, from its accidental discovery
by the Swiss paint maker Johann Jacob Diesbach in the 18th century to its transformation
into cyanide. Associated with the tragedies of the 20th century, Prussian blue serves
as a reminder of the consequences of scientific discoveries turned into tools of destruction, such as Zyklon-B utilized in extermination camps.
The canvas, proportionate to human height, is covered with approximately 4,700 matches.
The charred match heads symbolize skulls. This abstract composition evokes a sense of unease which intensifies as the concept is grasped.
The artwork was exhibited at Pulsating Matter (2023, curated by Stas Shuripa) and Days of Bygone Future (2024, curated by Ivan Novikov), raising questions about the price of progress and its repercussions for humanity.
by the Swiss paint maker Johann Jacob Diesbach in the 18th century to its transformation
into cyanide. Associated with the tragedies of the 20th century, Prussian blue serves
as a reminder of the consequences of scientific discoveries turned into tools of destruction, such as Zyklon-B utilized in extermination camps.
The canvas, proportionate to human height, is covered with approximately 4,700 matches.
The charred match heads symbolize skulls. This abstract composition evokes a sense of unease which intensifies as the concept is grasped.
The artwork was exhibited at Pulsating Matter (2023, curated by Stas Shuripa) and Days of Bygone Future (2024, curated by Ivan Novikov), raising questions about the price of progress and its repercussions for humanity.
© evgenya ermakova
works may be downloaded and shared with others, provided that credit is given and a link to the author's website is included.
these works may not be altered or used for commercial purposes, nor may they be exhibited without the artist's consent.
works may be downloaded and shared with others, provided that credit is given and a link to the author's website is included.
these works may not be altered or used for commercial purposes, nor may they be exhibited without the artist's consent.
