“Ecospheres” at the Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation (JCAF) is an exhibition taps into the deep relationship between humankind and the environment. The exhibition spanning three years under the theme of “Worldmaking”, focuses on critical issue such as pollution, waste and the impact of human activities on the planet.
Through various art forms like wall-works, installations, sound, and video pieces, “Ecospheres” sheds light on pressing concerns like plastics, overfishing, air pollution, and water scarcity. It challenges the notion of water being treated as a commodity rather than a fundamental human right and raises questions about our role in shaping the world we inhabit.
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The exhibition advocates for a shift towards a more symbiotic way of living, where humans and nature coexist for mutual benefit. Artists like Glenn Albrecht and Donna Haraway offer perspectives on the importance of connecting with the earth and reimagining our relationship with the environment.
One of the key messages of “Ecospheres” is the need to rethink our systems and behaviours to prevent further environmental degradation and species extinction. The exhibition draws inspiration from primal mythmaking traditions, such as the Aboriginal ‘songlines’, to emphasize our interconnectedness with the natural world.
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Overall, “Ecospheres” at JCAF challenges us to reimagine our role as stewards of the earth, to confront the realities of environmental crisis, and to work towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for all living beings.