The world does not exist, emptiness,

“Utopia” 2023, polymer clay sculpture, the original, a unique piece, gold-green patina, 40 x 17 x 14 cm

What would be my vision of utopia? A world where each person lives from the inner silence. The only immutable, eternal, constant thing present within each of us, below or upstream of all forms of sound, noise, manifestation. We live in a time where we are constantly turned towards the world of phenomena, experiences, what is commonly referred to as life – the noise! In general, we are disconnected from our connection with nature, and our spiritual side is not a priority in our current collective consciousness. We are not taught to turn our gaze inwards to become aware of this silence: our true nature.

For this sculpture, I drew inspiration from the spiritual master from the Vedic tradition, Guru Dev (Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, 1868-1953), born into a Brahmin family. At the age of 11, he set out in search of a spiritual teacher, following their teachings and quickly attaining the supreme state of awakened consciousness. Guru Dev then spent 60 years meditating alone in the impenetrable jungles of India, with only wild animals as companions, including tigers and lions. Representing him is, for me, the best way to symbolize this inner silence! The tiger and the birds in this sculpture symbolize a profound connection with nature and our spiritual essence. They, to me, are an external reflection of the embodiment of deep inner peace. Currently, we seek peace in the world of phenomena, in the external world, moving from one fleeting sense of well-being to another, from disappointment to disappointment. Let us turn towards and immerse ourselves in this silence, an infinite, stable, and eternal source of joy and bliss that we so desperately need!