Our contribution for a better future
August 2021
“At every moment of our lives we are free to act toward the future we desire.”
Heinz von Foerster, Knowledge and Conscience
The extent of the destruction after the heavy rain and the floods in July 2021 here in Germany are unimaginable for many people. Only direct experience, the images on television and the Internet give us a vague idea of it. At the same time, it remains incomprehensible what people experienced and suffered during these hours.
The weather and the forces of nature become a threat that can affect any of us. We think about how we can protect ourselves. These emergency and preparedness programs are important. At the same time, we must not forget the causes of such developments: Every day, people go against our nature with an even more destructive force, destroying habitat and thus our future. If we allow this to continue, soon none of our values will be safe.
The heart of our global weather system is beating weaker and weaker
When I had the privilege of visiting the Amazon in 2007, I experienced nature there as unimaginably alive, generous and nurturing. I lived with people who have a close relationship with their habitat, protecting and preserving it.
We, too, depend on the ecosystem of their Amazon rainforests. These forests are like a heart pump for the global weather system. If this pump beats slower and slower, becoming more and more powerless as the Amazon forests continue to be cut down, we and our children will experience a future like none of us want.
So I asked myself: what can I contribute to the change we all now desperately need? Can I do anything at all as an individual that will have an impact?
The necessary change can only be achieved together
We could see it after the recent flood disaster: If everyone gives something, unimaginable amounts of relief goods come together. At the same time, it does little good if many people do something indiscriminately: Another flood wave arrived in the flooded areas – this time of things that completely overwhelmed the helpers and the barely available logistics.
Not only doing good, but also making good happen!
If we want to help and do some good, we should fall back on what has already proven itself. That is why I have decided to use the means at my disposal to draw attention to Amazon Watch and to call for donations for this organization.
Amazon Watch has been working to protect the Amazon rainforests for 25 years. This organization works with all the leading environmental organizations while protecting the indigenous peoples who want to preserve their habitat and thus contribute to a better future for all of us.
If we want to invest money in our future, in our retirement and the habitat for our children, we can do so by donating to Amazon Watch.
My artwork “Immersion” as an incentive for your donation.
“Immersion”, 40 X 40 X 40 cm, steel wire, colored
I started my artistic career almost 30 years ago. I know how long it takes to build something that reaches beyond our daily horizons. I asked myself several times in between if I should give up. But I continued because my art is my means of expression with which I reach people. Today I can look back on an intensive, successful career. And I hope to be able to make my contribution to this world for many years to come.
Such dedication and perseverance is required from all of us to create a good future. Therefore I will raffle my artwork “Immersion” among all supporters of this campaign who send me their receipt for a donation of at least 25 Euros. I will conduct the raffle as soon as I have received receipts for a total donation of 25,000 euros.
When we act, we all win.
“Immersion” is emblematic of what we all want to achieve together. Because “immersion” means “to dive in”, “to let oneself fall”. This is only possible if we have a stable footing. A stable climate and intact ecosystems give life on this earth existential security.
You too can contribute to this. Share this article so that the campaign “Save the Amazon and our future” reaches as many people as possible. Because then we all win!
Donate now!
Together with Eduardo Serrano I have created a movie about this project.