Whispering Forest, 2023 Site-specific Installation with Natural Wood and Sound Technology

Whispering Forest is a site-specific installation that comprises reclaimed trees from Georgia and Azerbaijan, symbolising the shared ecological heritage of the Caucasus. Once lifeless, these trees have been revived to emit soft whispers of resilience and rebirth, audible only as visitors draw near, fostering a unique connection with nature. Incorporating wires that mimic mycelium, the installation represents the vital, unseen networks of life. It invites viewers to lean in and listen, transforming the act into one of contemplation and connection. The arrangement of tree trunks is inspired by the Orion the Hunter constellation, particularly as it appears during the winter solstice. The Winter Solstice, the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, has been celebrated in various cultures throughout history as a time of rebirth and renewal. It's a night when the sky is at its darkest, yet it's also a moment that marks the gradual return of light. Whispering Forest resonates with the broader narrative of the exhibition, symbolising both personal and ecological healing. It encourages a deeper awareness of the invisible systems that support our existence and prompts reflection on the cohabitation of technology and nature. The installation stands as a commentary on pressing environmental issues, notably the deforestation and land degradation in Georgia, and the ecological tragedies in Azerbaijan, including tree burning in post-war zones. It embodies a call for restoration and harmonious coexistence with the natural world, reflecting the scars left upon the land and underscoring the necessity for conservation efforts.