Works

Transformations of power take place constantly, both in larger social structures and in our relations with one another. Governmental bodies shift with elections, revolutions, or constitutional changes. Sometimes transformations occur because of new scientific knowledge, and sometimes because of changes in living conditions.

Economic powers are also in flux. A transformation of capital can change the course of an individual’s life, the lives of groups, or entire social structures, as in the case of recurring financial crises that have impacted millions of people. These shifts of power are often destructive, but they also open up opportunities for unexpected changes.

SUPERFLEX utilises the concept of the transformation of power in a number of works: for example, the headquarters of investment banks are reimagined as flowerpots for psychoactive plants, surgery equipment is moved from a gallery space into an operation theatre, and copies of the toilets of powerful institutions are installed in public spaces accessible for all. In these works, power is shifted from one place to another, and seemingly inflexible structures are shown to be malleable.