“From Cosmic Origins to Human Choices” is a monographic exhibition by German artist Julia Groos, whose work reflects on the history of the universe and the contemporary challenges facing humanity. The exhibition is a story about our planet, the evolution of life and human responsibility for its future.
Julia Groos is the winner of the International Amber Association's award in the Empathy competition held during the Legnica SREBRO Festival 2024. As part of the award, the artist received 0.5 kg of Baltic amber and the opportunity to prepare her own exhibition at the MSB Gallery.
This jewellery collection takes us on a journey through the universe up to the present day. It begins with the Milky Way, moves through our solar system, the volcanic origins of the Earth, the formation of the oceans and the development of life.
Further works refer to the Eocene epoch — the cradle of Baltic amber — depicting this period through a combination of amber and wood, capturing the atmosphere of rich forests and diverse forms of life. As we reach the present day — the Anthropocene epoch — three key objects examine humanity's impact on the world and the choices facing us.
Mickey Mouse, once an eternal optimist and symbol of hope who “always wins in the end”, is portrayed as a corrupted idol — no longer an innocent carrier of dreams, but an embodiment of how the pursuit of power and wealth leads humanity towards destruction and manipulation, creating unequal and unjust systems.
In sharp contrast, an open heart appears — an expression of humanity's capacity for love, compassion and inner transformation. It symbolises our potential to build a just, equal world based on mutual care and responsibility for the planet.
The final element is a rocket — a symbol of the fantasy of a privileged few escaping to Mars after the destruction of Earth. It expresses the illusion that we can abandon our planet instead of protecting it.
Which path will we choose?
Julia Groos
The exhibition opening will take place on Friday, 5 September, at 19:00 at the MSB Gallery (ul. Heweliusza 31)