Intentional Deconstruction
2019
Public space (Prague, Czech Republic)
Card decks, 50x35 mm
This project was developed during a challenging period of my life when I was dealing with depression and began therapy. During this time, I became aware of my tendency to be a people pleaser. As my mental state worsened, my attention to the details around me intensified. One therapy session brought up the idea that personal growth often requires going through a crisis, after which we can rebuild ourselves more stably.
Reading the k-punk: The Collected and Unpublished Writings of Mark Fisher (2004–2016) at the time, I resonated with the idea that an individual’s mental health is a direct reflection of the current neo-liberal society. The fact that everyone around me was struggling in some sense was just another direct proof that even in the hyper-connected world we all are feeling kinda disconnected.
In response, I created a series of 106 paper cards, each with a short, commanding phrase like “Smoke more,” “Watch one more episode,” or “Don’t reply.” I left these cards in public spaces, especially on public transport, hoping that casual finders might act on these instructions.
The sense of collective suffering and the mystique of the anonymous cards were meant to foster the impression of a “sign from above.” Through this project, I aimed to let people who feel lonely know that they are not alone and to create a discussion about overcoming isolation and finding meaning in our connections. Even if it means connecting through suffering.
2020 Exhibited at Unit of Temporality (Prague, Czech Republic)