Polina Surovova began the Techno Baroque series following the birth of her daughter in 2023. Observing her daughter's development during her early years inspired Surovova to reflect on humanity's primal connection to nature at the outset of our existence. In a small child, she perceives a being that mirrors the animal world, evolving into a human. Seeking a chimerical image that could embody both the human and the animal, as well as the cultural and the natural, Surovova found inspiration in the Baroque era's depiction of Cupid.
Originally derived from the Greek god Eros, Cupid later transformed into the 'putto'—the chubby, winged, often naked children synonymous with love. These figures, capable of captivating both gods and humans, symbolise a force governing the world. However, they also serve as decorative motifs in paintings, filling the sky with beauty, which presents a fascinating contradiction. In her work, Surovova employs the motifs and intricate painting techniques characteristic of the Baroque era, blending them with symbols of modernity to illuminate the dialogue between different epochs.
The Baroque period marked a pivotal shift in human consciousness, propelled by advancements in science and manufacturing. This transition signified humanity's gradual distancing from nature, a sentiment that some argue persists today. Surovova seeks to explore the moment when humanity embarked on a journey away from nature and towards the civilisation we recognise today.
In the Techno Baroque series, Surovova identifies three elements that encapsulate modernity: the progressive development of three branches of science: medicine, technology, and weapons. The imagery within her paintings can be interpreted as allegories of modernity, reflecting the complexities of our contemporary existence.