The ELES company, Ljubljana Zoo and the Center for Creativity/MAO solemnly presented to the public the sculpture Earth Wasn’t Always Called Earth, designed by artist Brad Downey, biologist Dr. Martina Modic and architect Luka Murovec. The sculpture, which draws attention to the importance of soil as the foundation of biodiversity and encourages reflection on the connection with the invisible life beneath our feet, was created as part of the Eles 3000 initiative.
The attendees were addressed by Ljubljana Zoo Director Suzana Gajič: “The sculpture reminds us of the importance of the invisible world of the soil, on which all life depends. At Ljubljana Zoo, we strive to understand and protect nature as a whole, which is why we are pleased with the project that connects art, science and business and encourages reflection on a responsible attitude towards the environment.” At the ceremony, the director also opened a new path for visitors, which will replace part of the existing path during the construction of the new wolf enclosure and will lead visitors past the new sculpture.
The representative of the Eles company and its Eles 3000 initiative, within the framework of which the aforementioned sculpture was created, Uroš Salobir, M.Sc., emphasized that “Eles’ infrastructure runs through environments co-created by people, animals, and plants. Therefore, finding a balance between reliable electricity supply and nature protection is one of our most important tasks.”
The project is also highlighted by the Municipality of Ljubljana as an example of connecting different areas. “In the coming years, Ljubljana Zoo will develop into a biodiversity center, not only for Ljubljana, but for the wider country,” said Ljubljana Deputy Mayor Rok Žnidaršič. According to him, such projects are important because they open up space for reflection on future adjustments of society. “The changes that are coming will affect our survival. The key will be the adjustments that we will have to make ourselves,” he emphasized.
Luka Murovec, a representative of the creative group that designed the sculpture, said: “This sculpture is dedicated to healthy soil. It is composed of three spheres, representing the three main layers of the earth beneath our feet. The monument reminds us that the earth is the hidden foundation on which all life above it depends.”
Photo: Luka Karlin