Michael Rakowitz
dal 21/1/2010 al 2/5/2010
Segnalato da
21/1/2010
Michael Rakowitz
Tate Modern, London
Michael Rakowitz works as a cultural archaeologist, uncovering an unexpected network of connections between historical fact and fantasy. 'The worst condition is to pass under a sword which is not one's own' traces links between western science fiction and military-industrial activities in Iraq during and after Saddam Hussein's regime. Through a series of interwoven narratives this project addresses, among other things, the Iraqi leader's fascination with the iconography of Jules Verne's novels and the Star Wars films, and the World Wrestling Federation's unique take on Gulf War politics.
curated by Ann Coxon and Rachel Taylor
Michael Rakowitz works as a cultural archaeologist, uncovering an unexpected network of connections between historical fact and fantasy. The worst condition is to pass under a sword which is not one's own traces links between western science fiction and military-industrial activities in Iraq during and after Saddam Hussein's regime.
Through a series of interwoven narratives this project addresses, among other things, the Iraqi leader's fascination with the iconography of Jules Verne's novels and the Star Wars films, and the World Wrestling Federation's unique take on Gulf War politics.
The project centres on the Swords of Qādisiyyah monument in central Baghdad. This triumphal arch, otherwise known as the Hands of Victory, was inaugurated on 8 August 1989. The invitation card for the opening ceremony featured the heroic proclamation, "The worst condition is for a person to pass under a sword that is not his own or to be forced down a road that is not willed by him." Rakowitz explores the multiple references and resonances of the Victory Arch, from the history of its design to its use as a backdrop for military posturing.
In this and other aspects of the project the artist explores how powerful contemporary mythologies derived from popular culture have informed the collective unconscious. Fictional characters from Darth Vader to Sgt. Slaughter coexist with historical figures in Rakowitz's symbolic universe, in which warrior fantasies transcend the alleged divide between east and west.
Michael Rakowitz talks about recent projects including The worst condition is to pass under a sword which is not one's own in his Artist's Talk on Friday 22 January.
Michael Rakowitz was born in Great Neck, New York, in 1973. He lives and works in Chicago.
The Gallery is conceived and led by Tate Modern's Assistant Curators, in dialogue with Mark Godfrey, Curator.
The Level 2 Gallery programme has been made possible with the generous support of Catherine Petitgas.
For further press information please contact Louise Butler, Tate Press Office, Millbank, London, SW1P 4RG. Call 020 78878732/4942 Email pressoffice@tate.org.uk
Press Officer - Daisy Mallabar Tel: + 44 (0) 207 8878731 Email: daisy.mallabar@tate.org.uk
Tate Modern Level 2
Bankside, London
Exhibition Hours: Sunday to Thursday, 10.00–18.00
Friday and Saturday, 10.00–22.00
Last admission into exhibitions 17.15 (Friday and Saturday 21.15).
free admission