AT DUTY

This installation, born from the profound shock of the billion-dollar banking system collapse in the Republic of Moldova, serves as a stark visual representation of a national crisis. The systemic plundering, spanning years, culminated in an economic catastrophe that continues to reverberate, its magnitude matched only by the collective frustration of a betrayed citizenry.

At the heart of this project lies the conceptual duality of the Romanian phrase 'LA DATORIE.' While translating to 'AT DUTY,' the word 'DATORIE' also carries the weight of 'DEBT.' This linguistic ambiguity embodies the dual burden shouldered by Moldovan citizens: a financial debt imposed upon them and a moral duty to reclaim the stolen funds.

The installation physically manifests the sheer scale of one billion dollars in hundred-dollar bills – a staggering 11.3 cubic meters – underscoring the immense, almost insurmountable effort required to rectify this profound injustice. Accompanying this visual testament are 30 poignant interviews with Moldovan citizens, their voices amplifying the scandal's devastating impact and the palpable sense of betrayal.

The scale of this installation has resonated far beyond Moldova's borders, capturing the attention of international media, including the BBC. Yet, despite its widespread recognition, a disconcerting silence emerged from certain local press agencies, their refusal to acknowledge my authorship hinting at a deliberate act of sabotage. This, however, only underscores the installation's power to challenge those who seek to obscure the truth and evade accountability.