While walking in the woods, I came across a herd of wild boars, among which I noticed a breeding pig. I was surprised to see her, and even more surprised by the expression on her face, which resembled a smile. The lightness and a lively look, the freedom and happiness could be felt in every movement.
When I photographed in the pigs shelter, I saw exactly the same as in the forest, although it was only a substitute for this wild freedom. These animals were really smiling, they were just so happy.
I know many horrible stories related to industrial breeding, but at the shelter I also heard these beautiful, breathtaking ones about the restoration of life, teaching the rescued animals what wind, sky, earth and grass are….... I was struck by a certain analogy between the story of Ophelia, the heroine of Shakespeare’s play „Hamlet”, and the fate of incapacitated farm animals who have been deprived of the ability to make their own decisions.
When I photographed in the pigs shelter, I saw exactly the same as in the forest, although it was only a substitute for this wild freedom. These animals were really smiling, they were just so happy.
I know many horrible stories related to industrial breeding, but at the shelter I also heard these beautiful, breathtaking ones about the restoration of life, teaching the rescued animals what wind, sky, earth and grass are….... I was struck by a certain analogy between the story of Ophelia, the heroine of Shakespeare’s play „Hamlet”, and the fate of incapacitated farm animals who have been deprived of the ability to make their own decisions.
The main inspiration for my photograph was John Everett Millais’ painting „Ophelia”, which shows the scene of death as an act of liberation. Ophelia Millais sings as she dies, as in Shakespeare’s play. My Ophelia is a pig that has escaped from breeding. Stunned by the colours, smells and light, she has fallen into a forest pond. As she drowns, she smiles for the last time and looks up to the sky as a happy and free creature.
The photo is an allegory for the burial of all animals from industrial farms. I firmly believe that our choices can change their fate. By reducing meat consumption and choosing farms that respect animal rights, we can make a real difference.
On the left side of the composition, near the tree, you can see a fragment of a human silhouette - it is a volunteer accompanying the pig on its last journey.
In this way, I would like to thank all the volunteers who help the animals in their drama in the "human" world and dedicate this photo to them.
In this way, I would like to thank all the volunteers who help the animals in their drama in the "human" world and dedicate this photo to them.
Thank you for your help: the animal shelters - ”Chrumkowo" and „Pegasus”.
2021, Photography. Limited edition 8 + 2AP, print on the cotton Fine Art paper, 1850×670 mm
