Yoana Topalska

This project emerged during a tumultuous period of my life where I was caught between the urge to stay or return home. Naturally, it evolved into a homage to that inner turmoil. Through distorted, abstract visuals, the intention was to evoke a feeling of disorientation in the viewer, mirroring my personal journey.

‘…much like a swing, we sway between clarity and chaos…’

Nestled in this transitional phase, each decision poised to alter my life’s course, I crafted this work as a journal of sorts, in an attempt to embrace the dual existence of living between two worlds. Amidst the yearning for familiarity and the pursuit of belonging, I witnessed the passage of time, my family ageing, my sister blossoming into womanhood and my friends forging memories. All this taking place in my absence.

‘…like threads, we knot and tie each other together…’

Standing at the edge of change, akin to a doorway, memories anchor me to the past while beckoning towards an unknown future.

‘…far from tribe and fire…’