What's Happening?
Artist Tanoa Sasraku is showcasing her collection of paperweights produced by oil companies in her upcoming solo exhibition, Morale Patch, at the ICA in London. These paperweights, which contain drops of crude oil, serve as a critique of the oil industry's influence on geopolitics and national identity. Sasraku's work examines the seductive allure and fragility of power associated with oil extraction. Her exhibition features paperweights displayed on velvet-lined boards, symbolizing global oil production and conflicts. Sasraku's interest in the narrative power of organic materials, such as crude oil, drives her artistic exploration.
Why It's Important?
Sasraku's exhibition offers a unique perspective on the oil industry's role in shaping global politics and economies. By using paperweights as a metaphor, she highlights the complex relationships between nations driven by oil interests. Her work encourages viewers to consider the environmental and ethical implications of oil extraction and consumption. The exhibition may provoke discussions on sustainable energy practices and the need for transparency in corporate and governmental dealings related to natural resources.
Beyond the Headlines
Sasraku's work delves into the cultural impact of American ambition and consumerism, reflecting on her personal experiences with U.S. media and culture. Her exploration of 1980s Americana and its influence on contemporary geopolitics offers insights into the cultural narratives that shape public perceptions of power and success. The exhibition challenges viewers to reconsider the values and symbols associated with wealth and power in modern society.
