The Half-Life of Transformation draws on the past, the memory of the landscape, the fleeting nature of human existence, but also on imagination and storytelling. For the world cannot be reduced to facts, historical events, or material relics, since the most important “half-life of transformation” takes place in the personal experience of each of us.

Work on the project began in September 2025, as part of the long-term art project The Essence of Place in Jáchymov, in which the art initiative VZBUĎME VARY, together with artists, engages in a dialogue with the landscape of the Karlovy Vary region.

The exhibition was originally planned for the Řetízkárna building in Jáchymov, a former miners’ changing room; ultimately, it is being presented in an adapted form in the historic spaces of Valeč Castle. Just as the Jáchymov landscape retains its unique fluidity and openness, the project continues its journey without being tied to a single location.

Authors: Jaromír Harna, Jan Koláček, Magdalena Košárková, Karolína Malá, Silvie Milková

Curatorial and production collaboration: Tereza Dvořáková, VZBUĎME VARY

Production collaboration: Barbora Tichá, Tranquillite, and Valeč State Castle

Partner: Photography Studio, Faculty of Arts and Design, Ústí nad Labem