Regina-Mareta Soonsein “Aquamorphosis”

Description

The term “aquamorphosis” does not exist as an official scientific or biological term. It is a neologism formed from Latin and Greek roots, combining “aqua” (water) and “morphosis” (formation, transformation or metamorphosis). Translated literally, it would mean “water transformation” or “water metamorphosis”.

The exhibition explores the human relationship with a substance of which we are a part and which we strive to control. Our bodies are composed largely of water, as is all other living matter that is born, grows, changes and decays. Water moves through bodies and landscapes, shifting from one form to another and carrying within it the continuous cycle of life. In this flow, the human being is no exception, but rather one of many temporary forms. We are part of a larger natural patchwork, where every form is both independent and inextricably linked to everything around it.

“Water does not remain in a single form, nor does it belong definitively to any one body. Matter circulates, cells divide and organisms emerge and change. Humans are part of this endless ‘aquamorphosis’: a global cycle of matter in which all living things are interconnected. Yet, we attempt to control this constant movement and force it into rigid frameworks, claiming ownership over something that has always been part of a larger whole to which we ourselves belong,” the artist explained.

Regina-Mareta Soonsein (b. 1991) graduated from Pallas University of Applied Sciences in 2019 with a degree in painting, though in recent years she has focused her creative work on linocut. Since 2017, she has participated in group exhibitions, held solo exhibitions and created installations for public social spaces. Soonsein has received the Biafarin Award at the NordArt international exhibition in Germany, the Wiiralt Prize as “Audience Favourite”, the award for Best Stage Design at the I Land Sound festival, and the “Newcomer of the Year” title from the Association of Estonian Printmakers.

Graphic design and sound: Keijo Kraus

The exhibition is supported by the Cultural Endowment of Estonia and Tartu Cultural Endowment.

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