Chronicles of an Emerging Diversity

The Knight

Knights have always been symbols of strength and reverence, majestic defenders of the less strong, and wise decision-makers. This figure, materialized from marine debris, initially appears strong, manly, and powerful. However, upon closer inspection, he rides a horrific horse made of waste, much like himself. This Knight symbolizes the modern decision-maker, who appears strong, manly, and powerful from a distance but, upon closer examination, is revealed to be composed of debris and waste, just like his ghostly horse. · Expose ->

The Ballerina

Ballet is one of the most complex forms of art, with ballerinas symbolizing lightness, beauty, and tenderness. This underwater ballerina, formed from plastic waste, dances in the ocean depths, embodying our disposable culture and reflecting what we have done to beauty itself. · Expose ->

Bobby

This post-human entity, with a rounded belly, prominent muzzle, and tail-like extension, emerged from a yellow chips packet, plastic food coverings, and plastic bags. Bobby symbolizes the consequences of unhealthy food habits and overconsumption, reflecting our disposable culture. · Expose ->

Aqua Guard

The Guard stands sentinel underwater, sculpted from marine debris. Armed with a water pistol, this figure embodies the irony of modern guardianship - protectors compromised by the very waste they are meant to defend against. Symbolizing the paradox of our environmental efforts, the Guard urges reflection on how we can protect what we are simultaneously polluting.

Neptune's Steed

A silhouette of the rearing horse resembles the logo of a very famous car brand and symbolizes luxurious life. The horse in this picture is crafted from discarded plastic, highlighting the irony of how our luxurious lifestyles generate such waste. · Expose ->

Underwater Universe Cleaner

This mystical creature, resembling a spirit of an Atlantis resident, is running with a bag full of waste over its shoulder, cleaning the underwater universe. It exemplifies the urgent actions we must take to address ocean pollution and protect our seas.

The species, captured in the weightlessness of the underwater cosmos, are the result of chance collisions of plastic bags, cups, bottles, nets, and jars gathered during two-hour-long scuba dives. Like most scuba divers, Alexej fights against pollution by collecting trash underwater. At the end of his dives, he takes pictures of the collected trash and removes it from the water for proper disposal.

In these provocative pictures, the photographer presents rubbish in its 'natural' habitat in an artistic manner, aiming to motivate viewers to behave in an environmentally conscious way. Alexej believes that presenting ecological art close to decision-makers will shift priorities during the decision-making process.

Recognition

• Finalist of Aesthetica Art Prize 2024
• Best of Photo Basel 2024 according to The Guardian and PHmuseum, for the artwork "The Knight"