Mini Totems
series of prints and sculptures, 2022-25

production: Adem
3D modeling Engineer: Denis Markov
with AI Midjourney ChatGPT

Mini Totem sculptures are integral to a larger body of research by the artist, focused on the metamorphosis of time.
The inspiration behind “Mini Totem” draws from the ancient concept of totems—objects that represent spiritual beings, ancestors, or clan lineages. Totems are traditionally seen as symbols of identity and cultural heritage, often used to con-vey stories and values across generations. In this sculpture, the totemic inspiration is evident in its towering form, which commands presence and invites contemplation. It serves as a modern reinterpretation of a totem pole, stripped of its overt iconography but retaining its profound symbolic resonance.

The element of time is subtly woven into the sculpture’s design. The sleek, polished metal surface reflects a timeless quality, while the structure’s upward reach suggests an aspiration toward the infinite. This interplay between the past and the future, the grounded and the aspirational, encapsulates the essence of time’s passage—an ever-present force that shapes and is shaped by human experience.
Interestingly, the sculpture also draws inspiration from the mundane yet powerful imagery of a meat grinder. This reference is most apparent in the sculpture’s base and the mechanism-like aesthetic of its shaft and perforated top. The meat grinder, an object associated with transformation and the blending of components, symbolizes the process of deconstruction and reconstruction. In “Mini Totem,” this metaphor speaks to the transformative power of art, where raw materials and concepts are ground together to produce something entirely new and meaningful.
By integrating these disparate inspirations-totems, time, and meat grinders—the artist creates a piece that is both visually compelling and rich in metaphorical content. “Mini Totem” stands as a testament to the artist’s ability to synthesize complex ideas into a cohesive and thought-provoking work. It challenges viewers to consider the intersections of culture, time, and everyday life, and to reflect on the ways in which these elements shape our understanding of the world.
The use of the Midjourney AI application in her practice suggests that she’s pushing the boundaries of traditional creation by integrating artificial intelligence as a means of visual experimentation and artistic expression. This approach blends digital tools with physical sculpture, creating a conversation between the ephemeral and the tangible, and be-tween technology and tradition.