Curatorial notes

Inner Chicken explores the tension between ego, fear, and self-awareness. At the center of the composition stands Bernstein's recurring chicken figure, a symbol of vulnerability and the inner voice that often struggles to be heard above the noise of pride, blame, and self-justification. The poem traces a gradual awakening, moving from confusion and competition toward acceptance and release. What begins as a search for validation ultimately becomes a recognition that many of life's struggles are rooted in illusion. The raised hands of the figure suggest both surrender and revelation, as though letting go has become a source of freedom. Through humor, symbolism, and spiritual reflection, Bernstein reminds us that true strength often emerges when we stop resisting and begin to see ourselves more honestly.