Silke von Clarmann

ARTIST STATEMENT Deceleration - Why it is so important to find a counterbalance to the haste of everyday life “We live in a fast-moving time full of distraction, digitalization and globalization. Countless people often only focus on their cell phones and feel rushed and controlled by others because of the constant need to be up-to-date. For me, the focus is always on the other person. Concentrating on their facial expressions and gestures allows me to mindfully build a relationship with the person. There is no need to exchange many words, because tangible empathy is the most important thing. I manage to communicate very delicately and trustingly without even saying a word to each other. Our performance orientation needs to slow down. We all need to regain the calm we need to be open to getting to know other people, customs and cultures. With my art I work precisely on this return to the necessary mutual appreciation. I refer to the way out in the encounter with the different characters depicted in the pictures. This ensures an intimate, embracing exchange and strengthens all of us in our ability to tolerate and peace.”