Neutralized Memories Series - 2023

In the artist’s latest series, "Neutralized Memories," Wagenknecht explores the complex interplay between memory, loss, and the remnants of a life dedicated to finance. This deeply personal body of work was born from her experiences as a caretaker for a family member who has struggled with Alzheimer's disease, and whose professional life in the financial sector had left an indelible mark on the psyche and the narratives that come out of their disease. Each composition in "Neutralized Memories" draws inspiration from the iconic Rorschach inkblot test, a psychological tool used to probe the depths of the human psyche. The abstract forms and patterns that emerge invite the viewer to project their own interpretations and emotions onto the works, mirroring the subjective nature of memory itself. The paintings are created using security ink as a base from intelligent banknote neutralization systems. The pigments are designed to render stolen banknotes unusable, and serve as a poignant metaphor for the gradual erosion of memory and identity that characterizes Alzheimer's. By repurposing this medium, Wagenknecht seek to neutralize the painful memories of her family members hallucinations which often revolve around imagined theft and financial insecurity. Through this series, Wagenknecht aims to capture the fragmentary and elusive nature of recollection, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's. The vivid hues of the security ink, juxtaposed against the stark sterile backdrop of galleries, attempt to evoke the fleeting moments of clarity that punctuate the fog of the disease and the often institutional conclusion of it. At the same time, the indelible stains left by the ink serve as a reminder of the lasting impact of one's life experiences and the enduring love of those who witnessed them.