Gnashing teeth and fiery eyes. The “Erderwärmung und der Biosphärenteufel” Sculpture embodies a chilling reality.
This artwork has a profound message about our planet’s fate. The sculpture stands as part of the MENSCH-ZEIT-ERDE themed path. This path is in the Black Forest’s biosphere area. UNESCO recognizes this area as a natural heritage site.
Let’s delve into the story behind this striking creation. The word “Teufel” or devil comes from ancient Greek. It means “Durcheinanderwerfer” or a person who throws things into confusion. Think of a confuser or slanderer. In the past, the devil was blamed for all evil. He was seen as the source of destruction. People thought he tempted humans to commit terrible acts. He sowed discord wherever he could.
Today, things are more complex. We live in an age of fake news and alternative facts. Conspiracy theories thrive and science is often dismissed. It’s harder to understand the truth. Evil no longer has horns and hooves. Yet, the old devil would be delighted by today’s global events.
The “Erderwärmung und der Biosphärenteufel” Sculpture depicts a satisfied devil. He leans over a skewered globe. Beneath it, a fire burns. The devil uses his left foot to pump air into the flames. With his right hand, he turns a crank. His left index finger points to the Kappler Valley on the globe.
Thomas Rees created this sculpture. He finished it in June 2020. The artwork is made of oak wood. This oak is from a tree that a storm uprooted after 220 years. Before the work began, it weighed around four tons.
The devil seems pleased with his work. He stokes the fires of global warming. In reality, he wouldn’t need to heat hell. The Earth is warming on its own. He could sit back and enjoy the destruction.
This sculpture serves as a stark reminder. We must confront the reality of climate change. The “Erderwärmung und der Biosphärenteufel” Sculpture is more than art. It is a call to action. It urges us to protect our planet before it’s too late. The sculpture stands as a testament to the power of art. It challenges us to confront uncomfortable truths. It inspires us to create a better future. A future where the devil’s work is undone.