|
Günther is an artist with whom political engagement always has been an integral part of his work. This installation is his artistic reflection on the changed political situation in the world. The scenery consists of two flags, tightly flapping in the airflow of two gigantic fans. Images are projected onto these flags, those of the United States and the former Soviet Union, which are symbolic for the country involved. To a certain extent, the moving flags, which distort the images, symbolise the function of the mass media in distorting reality. At the same time, it underscores the xenophobic character of, in theory, objective reporting. Every contemporary war situation has led to subjective reporting which was nurtured by sentiments that are not always resolvable. The Gulf War and the Palestinian question are the most recent harrowing examples of coloured, biased and often racist reporting. Bush is frequently to be seen on the American flag, as are patriotism and other images which can be considered as typical of this country, or are considered as such by Günther. On the red flag, of course, we regularly see Gorbachov. The wind of history ensures that the two flags, the two cultures, sometimes touch each other, but an estrangement inevitably follows again. And, detente or no detente: the two antagonists/allies remain militaristic and patriotic. Günther, described by many as an exponent of the 'arte povera' generation - a group of artists who give new content to empty, poor substance through their political-artistic views - is famous for monumental sculptures which overtly criticise Germany. His artistic reflections on the history of his country and the purely cultural criticism of it, which is far more eloquent than a bookcase full of critical historical works, make him one of the most important present day German artists. With his arresting shapes he succeeds in making feelings tangible, he knows how to give substance to a discomfort with regard to one's own history. Here he goes one step further than Anselm Kiefer. The powerful air stream from the fans and the enormous rustling underline the character of this installation. You are almost blown away; you instinctively look for something to hold on to. Mankind as the ball in contemporary events- This installation is a physical sensation that you must experience!
–
Eric van ‘t Groenewout
|
|
|
|
1 9 9 2 
