The photographic series titled "Ignat" was created out of a desire to explore and provoke a deep reflection on our Romanian traditions, particularly the one involving the slaughter of the pig before Christmas, on December 20th, a holiday that shares the same name. By capturing the details of a bloodied carcass, I aimed to place the viewer in a state of discomfort, to evoke repulsion, but also to open a conversation about the brutality of a custom that, in my view, has lost its meaning in the contemporary context.

I also felt that these photographs needed a connection to make the project complete. This was achieved through a collaboration with illustrator Ana-Maria Lemnaru, who presents viewers with various scenes from the ritual of pig slaughter. The purpose of these actions was to bring material well-being, health,  luck, and in certain situations, to ward off evil spirits.

 

This tradition, which once had a practical justification for our ancestors, has now turned into a ritual of excess, consumerism, and unjustified overindulgence. Through the raw and direct depiction of meat, I wish to suggest a reflection on the abundance of consumption in today's society, where the sacrifice of animals becomes part of an exaggerated dietary cycle, with no real necessity. I believe we have lost touch with the true meaning of the holidays and the traditions that once defined our cultural identity.

 

Through these photographs, I aim to capture not only the physical aspect of the sacrifice but also the animalistic nature of humans—the impulse to dominate and consume without restraint. My intention is to awaken the conscience of those who view these images, to encourage them to be more temperate, and to understand that the celebration of Christmas, and beyond, should not be reduced to culinary excess and the gratification of desires. The message of the "Ignat" series is about rediscovering balance, about humanity, and about our responsibility towards resources and living beings.

Ana-Maria Lemnaru's artistic activity can be viewed here: 
www.anamarialemnaru.com