"The Forest Faces" is a series of felt artworks depicting enlarged images of specific butterflies. Through the patterns on their wings, they mimic the appearance of other animals to deter predators.

I was fascinated by the diversity of these faces and their expressions, which we rarely see because butterflies are small and often hide. I imagined the butterflies as the small observers through whose eyes the forest experiences what happens. In most cultures, the butterfly symbolizes a being and messenger from beyond. Thus, the butterfly connects two worlds - the physical and the spiritual.

In this project, I aim to explore the connection between animism and ecology. Both animism and ecology share a common understanding of the world as a living, interconnected, and spiritual system. In animism, it is believed that everything, including plants, animals, mountains, rivers, and even stones, possesses a spiritual essence or soul. In ecology, this interconnectedness is viewed as ecological interdependence, where all organisms and environmental factors are connected and influence each other. Animistic traditions and ecological approaches equally emphasize appreciation and reverence for nature and its diverse manifestations. Animistic worldviews and ecological principles strive for balance and harmony between humans and nature. Both emphasize the importance of respectful interaction with the environment and sustainable lifestyles to preserve natural resources and leave a livable world for future generations.

I am interested in the role of the forest as a habitat, provider of life, and ecosystem in the heritage of different cultures and in the personal experiences of individuals.

So, I intend to expand my project through the experiences, stories, and collaboration with people from around the world to deeply understand and to emphasize the importance of preserving forests.