PlutoVirus Artist Statement

PlutoVirus

I began this series during the initial COVID-19 lockdown pandemic in Ottawa, Ontario and across the bridge in Gatineau, Quebec in Spring 2020. I continued in Winter / Spring 2020-21 during the second and third lockdowns.

I believe that we are undergoing a massive transformation leading to the next phase of evolution on this planet. I also believe that the destructive and potentially transformative energy of the planet Pluto is the main provocateur. Astrologically, Pluto has been in transit since 2008 and continues until 2024.

It feels like a modern revolution; I’ll never forget these kinds of feelings. Perhaps these images can be a reflective channel for them.

The PlutoVirus photographic series mainly focuses and metaphorically accompanies those that are alone or sharing in the company of others in what I perceive as mainly contemplative as well as incongruous states of presence. Ironically, protests arose during this period following adversities and challenges that came to surface; traditionally, some of what Pluto transits reveal and highlight for humanity to focus on.

Within these deep, and honest reflections, PlutoVirus relates to and honours both our interconnected humanity as well as the potential spiritual strength we have been challenged to  develop in these  precarious and changing times.

If you see yourself in this series, please accept my sincere appreciation and gratitude; in some situations, I asked for permission, in others, raw life and its truthful and humble purity simply could not be disturbed.

Thanks to Judith Parker for her much appreciated guidance and support with this project.

September 2021

Pedro Isztin