Climate Stories Near & Far
Exhibition dates: 28 June – 30 September, 2024
Venue: Le Centre Culturel de Rencontre Abbaye de Neumünster, Luxembourg
Artists: Nichole Sobecki, Kerem Uzel, Andrea Mantovani, Natalya Saprunova, Mathias Depardon.
The exhibition title hints at the oblivion of modern society and the persistent disinformation on climate change. By evoking the archaic notion of a flat earth and the widespread misconception that ancient civilizations unanimously subscribed to this belief, “Earth Is Not Flat, But Soon Will Be” underscores the shortsighted and neglectful “modern” practices that result in irreversible damage on the environment and society at large. It also alludes to the irony that modern society considers itself superior to ancient ones, although it harms the earth more.
Through stories from different parts of the world, the five photographers in the exhibition demonstrate the harm humans inflict on the planet and criticize the regressive mentality that obstructs human advancement towards a sustainable future. They bring to light concealed real-life stories such as forced migration, extinction of indigenous traditions, degradation of public beaches, and colonization of rare fauna and flora. “Earth Is Not Flat, But Soon Will Be” is a collective attempt to face our past and recreate an alternative future keeping in mind our oneness with nature.
Nichole Sobecki’s series “Where Our Land Was” highlights how climate change exacerbates violence against women and girls in Somalia.
Kerem Uzel’s “Lifetime Captivity” challenges the colonial legacy of modern zoos which contradicts the environmental consciousness of our time.
Andrea Mantovani’s “Le Chant du Cygne” (The Swan Song) focuses on the conflict around the primeval Białowieża Forest, illustrating humanity’s persistent desire to dominate nature.
“The Evenki People, Custodians of the Resources of Yakutia” by Natalya Saprunova reveals the impact of gold mining on the indigenous Evenkis who possess wisdom on protecting nature.
“Moving Sand,” by Mathias Depardon brings to light the environmental and social repercussions of unregulated sand mining which requires immediate global action.