Opening speech to the exhibition – Abstract of the Jorg.Katerndahl “The Sky at the End of the World” centres on the hole in the ozone layer, which is particularly threatening in the most southern area of Argentina; Antarctica and Tierra del Fuego.
A map drawn on a green carpet represents the Tierra del Fuego archipelago.
Small buildings constructed according to the local style, models of present structures, are placed on the map.
Numerous knives hanging from the ceiling and a vivid projected light demonstrate and symbolize the danger to life in the territory.
Since the protection of the ozone layer is missing, the ultraviolet rays of the sun constitute a permanent threat to the health of the inhabitants of Ushuaia, capital of Tierra del Fuego.
The four photos mounted on the walls show people who live in the city, and the relative inscriptions bear witness to their feelings about living with the anguish of a constant danger of this kind.
Although Antarctica, the focus of the phenomenon, is 1000 km from Ushuaia, the effects can be perceived there to a devastating degree.
Inés Fontenla
Translation: Anna Rita Gianneta