Humane Slaughter
By Sofia Kassaris
When I read or hear about humane slaughter, I truly cannot comprehend how this juxtaposition is a term. It is evident that humans are brain washed into thinking there is ever a humane way in taking a sentient being’s life.
There is nothing that can justify murdering an animal for human pleasure. I put together this installation to focus on both the horrendous dairy and meat industry. Dairy cows being forced to milk all day and pigs having their throats slit, tails cut, bodies thrown. This piece is to educate and show the harsh reality that goes on within slaughterhouses and animal farms.
Using a combination of materials such as latex, silicone, ink, corn syrup and glass wax I created this realistic and educational experience. I used a one-way system for this installation as I intend for the audience to experience some sort of transformation as they walk through. It also mimics the process of an animal being killed, there is no turning back or escaping. It is only one way.
I am a contemporary artist whose art is inspired by the misconceptions from family and friends on what is truly meant by the term ‘veganism’. Further stimulated by acknowledging how little people know about the animal industry and the suffering we as humans bring to them daily. Whether that be directly or indirectly.
A constant cycle of neglect, exploitation, and torture.
A constant cycle of neglect, exploitation, and torture.
Concentrating on farm animals as this is commonly what people consider when they hear ‘vegan’. Utilising my art to uncover and expose my thoughts and the harsh reality that too many people block out. I believe sculptures are the most effective form of art surrounding this topic as they inhabit the space alongside the viewer, which further provokes conversations. The art I produce is neither sugar-coated nor censured as I want to show the reality of it rather than the blurred version shown by these industries.
“My name is Sofia Kassaris and I was born in Essex. My first experiences as an artist were when I studied art in college. Although this is not when I discovered my true passion for it. This occurred when I studied BA Fine Art at university and transitioned to a vegan lifestyle and realised that I could use my art as a form of exposure. This was when I recognised that I wanted to create art that highlights important issues rather than art that is just aesthetically pleasing to the audience.
My sculptures were used in my installation ‘Humane Slaughter’ which was exhibited at my university. The positive feedback and provoking conversations reinforced the idea that I want to continue creating vegan artwork. As I am a devoted vegan activist who attends protests, vigils, and marches, I will pursue focusing my art onto the ongoing injustice of animals by making stickers and posters alongside my sculptures that can be brought to activist events to spread awareness.” - Sofia Kassaris