Artistic Method

Project during Borderland Residence

Traditionally, large-scale ceramic factories produced tiles and bricks from clay that was mined from the local clay pits. The industry provided wealth and progress to the city and over time it became a vital part of local culture. However, there is a darker side to its success; the industrial ovens in the clay factories consumed a lot of energy, releasing considerable amounts of carbon dioxide. The climate crisis now increasingly affects our lives, as seen in the recent flooding in the area. Taking the future forecast of more flooding and natural disasters in the area due to climate change into account, in which many buildings, historical monuments and sites will eventually be taken ‘back’ by the water, we would like to bring an anthropogenic sacrifice to the river, an ancient tradition practiced by the early inhabitants of the river area. River offerings restored the relationship with the Gods since ancient times, taking into account a balance between the local community and the natural spirits. By bringing a sacrifice to the river, we aim to return something to the natural entity which has been damaged by centuries of industrial practice, treated as an excavation site by the local community.

Website

www.miriamsentler.com

Traditionally, large-scale ceramic factories produced tiles and bricks from clay that was mined from the local clay pits. The industry provided wealth and progress to the city and over time it became a vital part of local culture. However, there is a darker side to its success; the industrial ovens in the clay factories consumed a lot of energy, releasing considerable amounts of carbon dioxide. The climate crisis now increasingly affects our lives, as seen in the recent flooding in the area. Taking the future forecast of more flooding and natural disasters in the area due to climate change into account, in which many buildings, historical monuments and sites will eventually be taken ‘back’ by the water, we would like to bring an anthropogenic sacrifice to the river, an ancient tradition practiced by the early inhabitants of the river area. River offerings restored the relationship with the Gods since ancient times, taking into account a balance between the local community and the natural spirits. By bringing a sacrifice to the river, we aim to return something to the natural entity which has been damaged by centuries of industrial practice, treated as an excavation site by the local community.