Kristina Popov's exhibition's "Mire" finissage

Since September 4th, the University of Tartu Botanical Garden has been hosting the exhibition "Mire" by Kristina Popov. The closing event of this exhibition, which focuses on mires, will take place on November 21st, and participation is free of charge.

Dedicated to the ecosystem of mires and their role as the largest natural carbon sinks, the exhibition focuses on the family of peat mosses (Sphagnum). These mosses form dense carpets in raised bogs and transitional mires and are the primary plants responsible for peat formation. In Estonia, 40 species of Sphagnum have been identified, including 12 rare species, two of which have not been recorded in the past 20 years despite targeted searches.

These hydrophilic plants take centre stage in the exhibition, which sensitively and profoundly delves into their macro- and microcosms — tracing their internal structures, their tactile qualities, and the formal beauty of these living organisms. Through a multimedia and multisensory body of work, Popov finds an artistic language that captures the force and fragility of life itself. Her practice offers a mode of mediation that draws us back to our origins, allowing us to experience what life is made of — and why it must be protected.

Kristina Popov is an interdisciplinary artist from Serbia, based in Berlin, whose work examines the relationship between humans and nature in the context of the climate crisis. Her art combines science, ecology, and artistic expression, incorporating photography, sound, video, and installations.

The closing event will take place on November 21st from 17:00 to 21:00 at the Botanical Garden. At 17:15 starts the final tour of the exhibition. Participation is free of charge. The project will continue with a follow-up exhibition at the University of Tartu Natural History Museum.

The exhibition is supported by the Goethe-Institut.

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Schedule:

17:00–17:15 – Gathering
17:15 – Tour
17:00–19:00 Overall event