The installation ‘Memoirs of A Wooden Boat’ is part of a larger body of works aimed at drawing attention to the alarming environmental changes in the northern region of Iran. Specifically, the installation directs its focus toward the drying wetlands and lagoons, highlighting the drastic transformations that these ecosystems have undergone.
The installation features a boat suspended from the ceiling instead of floating in water. The boat represents the harsh reality of a once-vibrant lagoon that has now been reduced to a fraction of its original depth. Historical records indicate that the lagoon was over eight meters deep, yet today, it possesses less than one meter of water.
The hanging boat is a poignant metaphor for the environmental issues affecting these precious ecosystems. It subtly moves and struggles whenever someone approaches, as a vivid reminder of the boat’s memories and the urgent need to address these issues.
The installation used Arduino technology to control a servo motor orchestrating the boat’s animated movements. Additionally, a PIR sensor, which is sensitive to motion, enhances the interactive experience by responding to the presence of viewers. Through the installation ‘Memoirs of A Wooden Boat,’ the artist aims to spark conversations, inspire action, and foster a collective responsibility to preserve and restore the beauty of our natural habitats.
