sculpture

2021/2022

author - Povilas Šimonėlis

supervisor - Arūnas Gudaitis

 

For the realization of my sculptural idea, I have chosen the Park of Nations’ Unity in Pašilaičiai. This space lies between the roundabouts of Gabija and Medeina streets. The place is considered a park essentially only because of its name. At present, its primary function is transit.

My proposed project aims to give real meaning to the park’s name by reflecting on the relationship between Lithuanians and other nations. Echoing the site’s current desolate condition, the composition memorializes historical and contemporary problems in Lithuanian relations with other peoples—dramatic episodes in the history of Lithuania and the Lithuanian nation marked by xenophobia, racism, antisemitism, support of imperialism, egocentrism, and general hostility toward others.

For the sculptural intervention, I chose the existing concrete tiles of the pavement. These tiles are lifted above ground level to form concrete columns, creating a kind of obstacle for passersby. On the top surface of each column is placed an inscription describing a specific negative example of Lithuanians’ behavior toward other nations. The height of each column depends on the perceived “weight” of the case being referenced. Each column is surrounded by light strips, which switch on at night.

These scars function both as physical barriers and as direct reflections of our own relationships with other nations. They may irritate us, but they remain—history cannot be changed. During the day, these volumes with inscriptions act as obstructions, while at night they transform into guiding markers, helping us navigate through the darkness.​