Fia Backström’s deep dive into the Appalachian region of Buffalo Creek, West Virginia, has resulted in a poignant exploration of environmental degradation, disaster capitalism, and intergenerational poverty. Her work, showcased in The Great Society at the Queens Museum, offers a multilayered perspective on the complexities of this region.
During her visits to Buffalo Creek, Backström uncovered the dark history of a coal slurry dam collapse in 1972 that devastated the community, leaving 125 dead and 4,000 homeless. The mining company’s negligence left the land toxic for years, contributing to the area’s ongoing struggles with poverty and ecological issues. Through her compassionate research, Backström delves deep into the heart of this community, shedding light on the enduring effects of industrial disasters.
One of the standout pieces in the exhibition is “Buffalo Creek Therapy Quilt 2025,” a collaborative quilt that combines digital elements and hand embroidery. Created with input from local residents, the quilt serves as a powerful symbol of collective healing and resilience in the face of trauma. Backström’s use of embroidery and docupoetry adds new dimensions to her typically photographic work, allowing her to explore storytelling in fragmented, evocative ways.
Another striking piece, “Days Without Lost Time Accident,” features images of safety signage from mining sites, highlighting the precarious nature of labor in these environments. Printed on steel and inverted in color, the images blur the lines between reality and abstraction, inviting viewers to question the narratives presented to them. The artist’s exploration of alternate realities and blurred boundaries underscores the complexity of the issues she grapples with in her work.
In “Sacrifice Zone,” a massive display apparatus resembling powerlines stretches across the gallery, drawing attention to the environmental sacrifices made in the name of progress. Through her immersive installations and thought-provoking artworks, Backström invites viewers to confront the harsh realities of industrial exploitation and its lasting impact on communities like Buffalo Creek.
Overall, Fia Backström’s exhibition at the Queens Museum serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of environmental degradation, economic exploitation, and social inequality. By centering the voices and experiences of the people of Buffalo Creek, she creates a space for empathy, reflection, and, ultimately, a call to action for a more just and sustainable future. Fia Backström’s exhibition at the Queens Museum, titled “The Great Society,” presents a thought-provoking exploration of the Appalachian region through a multimedia installation that combines photography, video, and textiles. The show is a response to the representation of impoverished Appalachian citizens in mass media images during the war on poverty in the 1960s, challenging the narratives that have been constructed about the region.
One of the central elements of the exhibition is a series of over 80 pictures printed on transparent film and suspended on cables. These images, captured by Backström in the region, depict forests, caves, and mineral formations, all inverted and distressed to create a parallel dimension. The absence of bodies in these images is a deliberate choice, perhaps in contrast to the depictions of Appalachian residents in historical media portrayals.
Videos play a significant role in the exhibition, providing a deeper insight into Backström’s research process. The video “Toxicology Report” features aerial footage of coal slurry dams and strip mines, accompanied by interviews with locals. The artist’s voiceover offers poignant reflections on the environmental impact of mining in the region, creating a sense of urgency and empathy.
The exhibition also features a textile piece titled “Buffalo Creek Therapy Quilt 2025,” created in collaboration with West Virginia residents. Inspired by a quilt made after the 1972 Buffalo Creek disaster, this work pays homage to the communities affected by the tragedy. Through embroidery workshops at the local library, Backström engaged with residents to create a quilt that depicts the towns destroyed in the disaster, symbolizing love, heartbreak, and survival.
Overall, “The Great Society” is a powerful and immersive exhibition that challenges preconceived notions about the Appalachian region. By incorporating photography, video, and textiles, Backström creates a multifaceted narrative that invites viewers to reconsider their understanding of this complex and often misunderstood area. The exhibition serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to local voices and engaging with communities to tell more nuanced and inclusive stories. The world of fashion is constantly evolving, with new trends and styles emerging every season. From bold colors to minimalist designs, there is always something new to discover in the world of fashion. One trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years is sustainable fashion.
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