Berenika Burska’s exhibition Bezgłosy invites visitors to explore the often-overlooked experiences of the Deaf and hard of hearing. The title, which translates to “Voiceless,” encapsulates the theme of unspoken narratives—the voices we cannot hear, those we fear to hear, and those we choose to ignore.

At the heart of this project is the desire to understand the challenges faced by the Deaf community, fostering an openness to those who may be different yet share similar human experiences. Through visual representation, Burska aims to bridge the gap between hearing individuals and the world of the Deaf, a world that can be difficult for many to comprehend.

One of the most striking features of the exhibition is the installation of butterfly wings, which serves as a metaphor for Deaf individuals. This installation encapsulates how we perceive these individuals and the sounds they produce—sounds that remain unheard by them. The butterfly, often seen as a symbol of transformation, is also “deaf,” producing strange, high-pitched sounds that echo the unique experiences of the Deaf community. This installation combines the delicacy and vibrancy represented by butterflies with a rustling, unsettling sound that reflects the complexities of being Deaf.

Another key element of the exhibition is a stop-motion animation illustrating the “types” of Deaf individuals. In this animation, butterflies emerge from cocoons, symbolically rising upwards. Some of these butterflies transform into hands, representing Deaf individuals who embrace their identity and are fluent in Polish Sign Language (PJM), their natural cultural language. In contrast, the black butterflies signify those who are Deaf but have not connected with their culture, lacking knowledge of PJM and struggling to find their place in the hearing world. This poignant imagery portrays the struggle of Deaf individuals who live between two worlds, highlighting their unique identities and challenges.

Burska also addresses the nuances of communication through a projection of speaking lips. This segment emphasizes that not all Deaf individuals can read lips, and that lip-reading varies significantly from one person to another. In the project, different mouths utter the same words in the same order, yet each displays its own unique movement and tempo, underscoring the complexity of verbal communication.

The exhibition’s second component features a series of minimalist paintings that visually communicate Burska’s artistic language. These works are interpretive responses to selected poetic and literary texts, serving as inspiration and illustration. The predominantly dark and muted colors of the paintings invite viewers into a contemplative space, encouraging a deeper engagement with the themes presented.

Through Bezgłosy, Berenika Burska offers a glimpse into the lives of Deaf individuals, a topic she is eager to delve into further. This exhibition is just a starting point in her exploration of a rich and multifaceted subject, leaving audiences with a profound sense of curiosity and empathy towards the Deaf community.