“Melting”
There was a peculiar desire in my soul this past December, a wish to pour powdered sugar all over the green Swiss Alps. This whimsical wish sparked my exploration into my thesis work. As witnessed by the transformation of Gstaad, from a winter wonderland to a winter tragedy, the visible impact of climate change on the region is undeniable. Growing up in Gstaad, I experienced firsthand the dwindling snowfall in the Alps, driving me to use art as a means to convey the urgency of climate action.
I imbue my artwork with the essence of winter and the delectable foods that define my personal experiences in Gstaad. I incorporate materials such as polymer clay and paper, alongside cultural foods like chocolate, meringue, ice cream, cheese, powdered sugar, and hot berries, to convey my message. Through interactive sculptures, postcards, photographs, and traditional Swiss decoupage, I seek to evoke contemplation and dialogue surrounding the evolving Alpine landscape.
The intent of my work is to raise awareness about climate change's profound effects on the Swiss Alps, particularly targeting the affluent who contribute significantly to environmental degradation yet face minimal consequences. By focusing on skiing and luxury tourism in Gstaad, I aim to bring the message of climate change closer to home for this demographic. My aim is not to assign blame, but rather to foster a sense of responsibility among the privileged, urging them to protect the fragile environment.