Per Aspera Ad Astra
“Per Aspera Ad Astra” is a contemplative work that delves into the meanings of human existence and our becoming, taking us on an introspective journey that touches on fundamental questions about our place in the universe. Created by artist Bogdan Nueleanu, the piece stands out not only through the complexity of the materials used but also through the profound concept it expresses. Far from being a simple sculpture, “Per Aspera Ad Astra” represents a meditation on the human condition, on evolution and the desire for transcendence, as well as on the dangers and moral dilemmas that accompany these pursuits.
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The entire work is built upon a complex, symbolic narrative that begins with the character’s two feet—one barefoot, signifying the humble beginnings of humanity, and the other wearing a Roman sandal, a symbol of nobility and the Latin roots of the Romanian people. These feet, placed on a solid foundation, symbolize our shared past as well as the deep connections between humanity and the earth that shaped us. They become the starting point for a symbolic journey toward ascension and knowledge, where each step is marked by the lessons of the past.
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At the center of the sculpture, the humanoid body of the figure becomes an instrument of reflection. The hollow space in the chest area, shaped like a map, is a subtle yet meaningful detail. The map not only suggests a direction but reflects the artist’s longing for his homeland—a feeling shared by many in the diaspora. This void becomes both a window into the past and a gateway to the future, a symbol of loss and the search for a universal identity.
Another essential element of the work is the transformation of the sculptural torso into a bionic form, resembling that of a cosmonaut. The astronaut helmet represents our connection to cosmic space, and our desire to explore and conquer the stars. The polished stainless steel visor, which reflects the surrounding environment, plays a dual role—it becomes both a focal point and a symbol of introspection. Looking into this visor, the viewer sees themselves and the world around them, turning this act of self-observation into a profound invitation to introspection.
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The character’s right arm, robotic and extended toward the sky, becomes another sign of the desire for transcendence. It acts like a guide pointing us toward the stars, toward ultimate knowledge, and toward a potential post-human existence. In a world where technology advances rapidly, this image of a robotic arm reaching for the sky suggests the possibility of an evolution in which humanity, in its quest to transcend its limits, transforms into a bionic entity—more powerful, but perhaps less human.
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In contrast, the figure’s left hand, held low and pulled back, holding a cross between its fingers, adds an element of moral and spiritual tension. The cross symbolizes our connection to divinity, to our spiritual essence. It serves as a warning, a reminder of the risks involved in abandoning this covenant in favor of technological and universal conquest. In a world obsessed with conquering the cosmos, expanding scientific endeavors, and surpassing physical limits, the human world risks losing contact with the fundamental essences of humanity: compassion, spirituality, and responsibility toward others. It is as if the entire world is trying to hide or deny its connection to the divine, spending enormous sums to escape paradise while leaving entire regions of the world in poverty and ignorance, and making the planet sicker each day through our indifference to the suffering of our fellow beings.
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Thus, “Per Aspera Ad Astra” becomes a work with multiple dimensions. On the one hand, it reflects the desire to explore and transcend human limits, to look toward a future in which technology and evolution give birth to a new form of life. On the other hand, it draws attention to the risks of this path, to the loss of the human foundation in the face of technological progress. Its central message is that despite our desire to reach the stars, it is imperative not to forget what it means to be human—not to sever our connection to spirituality and to one another.
In conclusion, “Per Aspera Ad Astra” is not just a sculpture—it is a warning, a call for introspection, and an invitation to reconsider the fundamental values of humanity. It serves as a reminder that in our quest for answers, for evolution, and for knowledge, we must not forget to preserve our connection to our roots, to what makes us human—and most importantly, to never lose our connection to divinity and to the deeper meaning of existence.
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Bogdan NUELEANU
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The sculptural work of Bogdan Nueleanu, the artist from TimiÈ™oara, bears the title of a Latin expression from Seneca, specifically from his writing “Hercules Furens”: “Per Aspera Ad Astra” (Through hardships to the stars). It is the creation of a virtuoso in metal modeling. Stainless steel, bronze, and iron—through his imagination and mastery—emerge from inanimacy and inertia to become animated, transmitting thoughts and emotions that the craftsman has implanted into the inner essence of the material, inviting them to express themselves.
With valuable experience working in industrial environments, following his academic training, Bogdan Nueleanu has taken the leap into the alchemy of the creative act, performing a genesis. His effervescent imagination is matched by his solid command of the craft. In his case, the chisel is the welding machine, which he wields like a master conductor, one who bestows magical powers upon his baton. The extraterrestrial figure he conceived at IaÈ™i, during the sculpture camp at the Airport, aspires to fly—knowing full well that it is not easy, but arduous—taking with it the earthly sphere toward the celestial Light. And undoubtedly, even if by winding paths, it will reach the stars.
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Grigore ILISEI
With a classic and, in principle, optimistic title, the work Per Aspera Ad Astra by the well-known TimiÈ™oara-based artist, specialized in metal, relies heavily on symbolic references and narrative. The outline of Romania is clearly visible in the chest area—an expression of longing for the homeland—but it is carved into a body with bionic, cyborg-like characteristics. Similarly, the raised hand—a symbol of the call to fight and belief in success—is revealed to be robotic. In this way, the piece draws on elements from the grotesque, satire, and sarcasm, with its aesthetic message oscillating between a (bleak) technological future and the reaffirmation of the values that have carried us through history: dignity, fighting spirit, patriotism, and Christian faith—each patiently displayed through their respective symbols.
Also commendable is the technical achievement of creating such an emblematic figure, with anatomical details, through the welding of dozens or even hundreds of thick metal sheet fragments—a result of the artist's long-standing experience as a welder.
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Ioan RÄ‚DUCEA