The contemporary dance performance "Shards" by Aigars Larionovs delves into the philosophical dichotomy between Western and Japanese concepts of brokenness. In Western culture, shards symbolize destruction and discard, representing objects without value, such as a broken cup or vase. In stark contrast, Japanese philosophy celebrates the beauty and unique value of cracks and shards, seeing in them the potential for renewal and the beauty of imperfection. Larionovs embraces this idea, deliberately highlighting the repaired areas of broken objects as treasures rather than flaws.

Within this context, the performance becomes a personal exploration for Larionovs, reflecting on his own family relationships, particularly with his mother. He reveals his internal struggles, emphasizing moments where he clung to a facade of being 'good,' 'calm,' and 'composed,' while experiencing turbulent emotions within. The narrative invites the audience to reflect on the consequences of suppressing such emotions, which can lead to destructive behavior and a disconnect from one's true self.

Ultimately, "Shards" is not merely a dance performance; it is a poignant commentary on how the experiences of familial relationships and personal struggles are intertwined with the broader philosophical notions of imperfection and resilience. By drawing on the concept of kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, Larionovs encourages acceptance of one’s flaws and past mistakes as part of a journey toward self-discovery and transformation.