This series approaches the topic of species extinction in a restrained and indirect way. Instead of confronting the viewer with shocking images, it relies on aesthetics and symbolism. Extinction rarely happens loudly. It unfolds quietly, gradually, often unnoticed and it is precisely this subtle disappearance that shapes the visual language of the work.
Play is usually associated with innocence, repetition, and rules that promise fairness. We play under the assumption that there is always another round, another attempt, another chance to win or lose without lasting consequences. This way of thinking mirrors how humanity treats nature: as a system that will recover, reset, or forgive our mistakes.
This reflection led to the concept of “Schwarzer Peter.” The game is traditionally played by collecting matching pairs of animal cards. One card, however, does not have a pair: the card showing a black tomcat. The player who is left holding this card at the end of the game loses. The aim of the game is to get rid of all cards, no one wants to remain with the black cat.
Transferred to our reality, the metaphor becomes painfully clear. We exploit nature by collecting and consuming its resources, while ignoring
