WRECKAGE IN A BOTTLE (2019)

Tom Herck's "Wreckage in a Bottle" (2019) reimagines the message in a bottle to explore themes of war, consumerism, and distorted societal values. Inside the bottle is a paper warship, folded in origami style—an unmistakable symbol of conflict.

A key element is a 5 Euro banknote, also folded into a warship. This references reports from Belgian media that grenades were being sold on the black market for just 5 Euros, highlighting the alarming ease with which violence can be accessed. The bottle itself is shaped like a milk bottle—milk serving here as a symbol of basic human needs and nourishment.

By contrasting the low cost of weapons with the rising price of essentials, the artwork critiques society's priorities and the disturbing imbalance between care and destruction.

Wreckage in a bottle 2019 Plexi glass bottle 3260 x 94 cm ø White plastic cap 5 x 50 cm ø Black concrete plinth +- 3000 kg Folded cardboard with full color print on toxic free paper. Oostende (be) — **Wreckage in a bottle**
2019
Plexi glass bottle 3260 x 94 cm ø
White plastic cap 5 x 50 cm ø
Black concrete plinth +- 3000 kg
Folded cardboard with full color print on toxic free paper.
Oostende (be)