BrezPasBrezi (Generation After Generation)
The piece captures a powerful moment of cultural preservation, portraying the artist from behind as she stands on a stool, carefully restoring the icons of the 13th-century Shelbuhem Church in Rubik, Albania. On the right, a portion of the damaged church wall is depicted with textured detail, emphasizing the faded faces of saints - worn away by time. The contrast between restoration and decay underscores both the fragility and resilience of cultural heritage.
To enhance the tactile and emotional depth of the work, she incorporated sand from the Adriatic Sea into the paint, creating a textured surface that mimics the weathered, crumbling walls of the church. This technique not only adds a physical dimension but also symbolizes the passage of time and the enduring connection to the land and sea that have shaped Albania’s history.
Thematically, BrezPasBrezi (Generation After Generation) engages with the exhibition’s focus on "Living Without Leaving" by reflecting on her personal decision to return to her homeland and dedicate herself to cultural preservation. The act of restoring the church becomes a metaphor for continuity and the transmission of heritage from one generation to the next. The title Generation After Generation reflects the idea that preserving cultural treasures is a collective responsibility, ensuring that they endure for future generations.
Through this piece, the artist aims to inspire reflection on the importance of cultural preservation and the role each of us can play in safeguarding our shared history.
