ASP Łódź
Graduates: 2023
Specialisms: Jewelry / Fine Art
My location: Łódź, Poland
First Name: Wiktoria
Last Name: Nowotna
University / College: ASP Łódź
Course / Program: Jewelary
Graduates: 2023
Specialisms: Jewelry / Fine Art
My Location: Łódź, Poland
"MATRIX" is a series of works that deeply explore the phenomenon of changing canons of beauty and adapting the body to social requirements through various interventions. The title refers to "mater" - the original form, and to the mother matrix, which serves as a pattern for creating subsequent copies. It is the archetypal standard of beauty that society imposes on individuals. The collection consists of pink sponges enclosed in gold-colored brass frames. Sponges symbolize a soft, natural body that is shaped by stiff, shiny frames. These frames represent social norms and beauty standards that often require individuals to drastically transform their bodies through cosmetic, surgical or fashion procedures. The denaturalization of the body form is becoming common and is accompanied by an inherent sense of discomfort. Tensions build in the forms, this operation takes a turn. Interventions to look natural – from plastic surgery to intense training programs to strict diets – often lead to physical and mental pain. Each frame in the work from the "MATRICA" collection symbolizes the painful processes and limitations that aim to create the "correct" shape. Growing frustration and complexes result from constantly comparing yourself to unrealistic standards. The pursuit of subjective beauty imposed by society leads to the destruction of one's own body and spirit. The pursuit of acceptance and assimilation in the group becomes the driving force behind these changes, often bringing only short-term satisfaction. This artistic work is a critical look at contemporary canons of beauty and their impact on the human body and psyche. It encourages reflection on the value of diversity and naturalness, questioning the sense of striving for an artificial, changing pattern of beauty. Artistic works are a set of pendants and brooches made using sponge and brass.