Shaiko Walentyna

“I was already aware of the Freedom Index and knew that Belarus, the country where I was born and raised, ranks very low in the index (namely, 126th place according to 2022 data). Poland is the country where I have lived for more than 10 years, for all of my adult life it ranks much higher in this ranking (49th place according to 2022 data).

Through the transformative power of decollage, I dismantle the societal constructs that shape our perception of freedom, exposing the underlying duality that resides within. By visually deconstructing and rearranging images and symbols associated with freedom, I invite contemplation on the inherent contradictions and compromises we face in our pursuit of liberty. Is freedom an inherent state of being or a mere illusion? Can we truly emancipate ourselves from the systems that perpetuate inequality and restrict our autonomy? My decollage pieces aim to evoke a sense of reflection, urging viewers to confront the dualism of freedom in their own lives. Through this artistic exploration, I hope to stimulate dialogue, challenge preconceived notions, and inspire a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding our yearning for freedom.”