Velta Vikmanis

Vestige Echo

An intergenerational exploration of memories, loss and transformation during a global pandemic. Using recycled and repurposed materials (maps, negatives, receipts, cards, CD and book jackets, journal and sketchbook pages, painted canvas and historical documents i.e. report cards, programs, newspaper articles) sorted by weight, reduced to smaller pieces and randomly sewn together to create a new memory while in conversations with my mother. The Vestige Echo is a recycling of time, emotions, lived experience and a unique opportunity too deeply reconnect in extraordinary times. The creation reveals an understanding, healing and celebration of the journey each person takes with the duration uncertain and unknown.

“VESTIGE ECHOArtifacts of life Collected over decadesStored and kept safeHistory to be documented, later revealedA history of life, lives in proximityMinute or significant, totally irrelevantEach artifact a placeA bookmark of a moment I remember when…
I remember that…I remember.Astounding conversationNote those at the table, save the receiptOur deepest sympathies A card to summon strength on dark daysAn artifact collectorTransforming chaos to order Conversing with each pieceWhere it has been, delighted it has reappearedI remember when…
I remember that…I remember.Pieces that offer encouragement A happy place, an easier timeMoments of joy, time of contentmentGlimpse of the road traveledA classical piece Catapult to a Sunday morningTransition to a church in Montreal Mozarts Requiem a cold autumn nightI remember when…
I remember that…I remember.Collect to preserve Parts of life with meaningReminders of experienceConnecting our humanity, elevating our empathyArtifacts memorialize I was here - WE are hereWhat has impacted and influencedIt stands before you nowI remember when…
I remember that…I remember.The journey is unfinishedRemove a single memory, a different storyArtifacts, in piecesWoven and shared into your consciousnessNew meaning and significanceDon’t forget the face, that smile Time returns like magicA catalyst of memoryI remember when…
I remember that…I remember.Each person has an echo A depth and range of colourIn a snail trail of lifeIt sparkles and shines when the light hitsArtifacts versatility to manifest Removed from original contextTransformed and metamorphosed A new story I remember when…
I remember that…I remember.A memory created from what you have seenTransformation and eternal flow Time moving to and froConnecting us into a common plotNow hear the Vestige Echo.”