Pearls of Memories
“Memories are the pearls of our consciousness. The more we remember ourselves, the more we exist.” – Valeriy Gubin, philosopher
About the Project
“Pearls of Memories” is a conceptual art installation by Alina Tacmelova, in which memory is understood not as a static archive of the past, but as a living force—one that shapes our identity and keeps us anchored in the present moment.
The project is inspired by the reflections of philosopher Valeriy Gubin on memory as the “pearls of consciousness,” as well as by the studies of sociologist Maurice Halbwachs and the philosophical writings of Byung-Chul Han devoted to the exploration of memory.
The installation interprets memory as an emotional constellation—a non-linear structure in which personal and collective histories intertwine.
What is invisible, like our memories, the artist transforms into physical forms, giving us the opportunity to interact with them.
Each memory becomes an act of returning to oneself, to one’s emotions and feelings.
We are made of memories.
Concept
But…
We have lost memory. We have become forgetful. Our phones are now responsible for our memory. We no longer remember — we simply archive and accumulate new information, as philosopher Byung-Chul Han notes.
Digital culture has created the illusion of memory: if I saved it, I remember it. This is the greatest misconception of modern humanity. We take thousands of photographs, process tons of new information every day, yet lose the ability to feel and to be aware in the present moment. As a result, we lose our authenticity, turning into bots.
We save, archive, chase trends and algorithms, but we do not truly live through experiences or transform them into lived knowledge. Tacmelova’s installation invites the viewer to pause, take a deep breath, and remember—consciously — emotions and feelings.
To cultivate a new habit of collecting memories as precious pearls. Each “pearl,” handmade from several layers of fabric, symbolizes one of your memories — a fragment of lived experience.
The “pearl necklaces” consist of beads of different sizes, from the smallest to the brightest memories of your life.
There is no symmetry here.
An event that seems insignificant at first glance may leave an indelible trace, while something considered “important” may dissolve — yet still remain with you.
Memory begins with presence – with the ability to be fully in the moment, to live it deeply, to imprint it into the architecture of the soul, rather than handing it over to a digital archive.
Do not turn your life into short “stories” that disappear after 24 hours.
Memories require time and inner work.
Conceptual Art Video
The installation will be brought to life in a forest, where nature becomes part of the work itself.
Among the trees, silence, and shifting light, the viewer will step into a meditative space that mirrors the fragile, organic flow of memory.
Alongside the installation, an art film is in production — a performance piece featuring the artist herself. Through this visual narrative, Tacmelova explores how memory transforms into action, presence, and emotional experience.
CONCEPTUAL ART VIDEO IS COMING SOON. STAY TUNED.
Project Realization
The elements of the installation (the pearls) are entirely handmade from fabric (cotton), using a papier-mâché technique.
The installation can be presented in spaces of any size, with the addition of fabric elements that create an even more intimate atmosphere for visitors.
An art video is also an integral part of the installation.
Invitation to the Viewer
This installation invites you to assemble your own necklace of memory. To string your moments consciously and tenderly along the fragile thread of time. To reclaim presence before the photo, before the archive, before the device.
“Through memory, we identify ourselves — because our memories belong to us alone. We refuse to drown in chaos and forgetting, learning instead to preserve love – or every fleeting, unrepeatable moment of life.”
Artist’s Statement
“I believe memory is an act of creation. Each moment we choose to hold becomes a pearl, strung along the fragile thread of existence. This work is my invitation to remember — deeply, emotionally, deliberately.” – Alina Tacmelova