About the Project
Transformation Through Reflection
What is a mirror? It is not just an object but a portal between the external and internal worlds. An ancient tool of self-discovery, a symbol of duality and transformation. Water was the first surface to reflect humanity, and the mirror became its continuation — a tangible reflection of reality.
A mirror reveals both illusion and truth. In it, we see our appearance, but we also glimpse deeper — into our thoughts, emotions, and essence. It is a tool of awareness: we either wear masks or confront our true selves.
Reflections of Myths and Legends
Designer Yury Goncharov’s mirror, De Vita Ad Vitam, embodies layered cultural and religious archetypes. Its shape echoes the contours of Lake Kinneret, a body of water mentioned in biblical texts. According to the New Testament, Jesus walked on its waters. For centuries, this lake has been associated with healing and rejuvenation. Kinneret feeds the Jordan River, where Christ was baptized.
This concept is mirrored in the object as a symbol of transformation. Looking into it, one recognizes the misalignment between inner and outer worlds and embarks on a journey of change — one that mirrors the water’s path from Kinneret through the Jordan to the Dead Sea, a place of purification and renewal. Yury personally visited these geographical locations, drawing deep inspiration from their historical and spiritual significance. His journey through these landscapes served as a direct reflection of the themes that De Vita Ad Vitam encapsulates — rebirth, self-awareness, and transcendence.
Materials as a Reflection of Philosophy
The mirror’s design encapsulates the natural water cycle and the meaning of spiritual transformation:
On the wooden surface of the shelf, delicate ripples of tin form “water rings,” symbolizing the passage of time and the ephemeral nature of reflection. At the center, layers of turquoise epoxy resin create a fluid depth, where stainless steel spheres are suspended at varying levels, evoking the sensation of floating droplets frozen in time. The rich walnut foundation, meticulously polished with wax, enhances its organic beauty, grounding the composition in warmth and timeless elegance. Its tactile and rich surface invites touch, adding a sensory dimension that deepens the connection between the viewer and the piece.
An Art Object as a Catalyst for Change
This is not just a mirror — it is a tool for self-awareness. It poses a question: does your outer world align with your inner self? Like water in myths, it cleanses, transforms, and encourages movement.
Yury Goncharov’s De Vita Ad Vitam is more than an object; it is a legend embodied in art. It not only reflects but also guides one toward discovering their true self, serving as a constant reminder of the ever-evolving process of transformation. Through the interplay of symbolism and functionality, this art piece seamlessly integrates into modern interiors, merging philosophy with design.
Dimensions
Mirror:
Shelf:
