Stalke Out Of Space # 32

Black Box

Sam Jedig

Place:Kirke Hyllinge Biblotek

2003

Review:

Black Box at the Library

The work Black Box is presented in connection with Bramsnæs cultural days at Kirke Hyllinge Library until April 30, 2003.

Sam Jedig's installation originates from the well-known observation that the United States and the Western world are in the process of overthrowing yet another dictator. The Black Box refers to the aviation term, often used to document circumstances surrounding a plane crash. A black box, therefore, contains explanations from which we can learn.

Black Box measures 122x122x190 cm and is a work that is both external and internal. The black-painted exterior is adorned with many small works where classic and symbolic figures emerge with a black veil over their mouths. Only their eyes are visible. The background of the small works is covered with headlines that seem meaningless. In the texts, there are hints of articles that tell of fear, anxiety, and concern about the future, both for others and for the individual in everyday life.

The interior of the box presents some of the most fanatical dictators who have caused madness. Here, they are surrounded by blackness. The walls of the box are darkly painted, but the shiny and scratched surfaces reflect light in dark shadows. Out of the black surfaces, glossy white texts emerge, telling of war and itself.

Inside the box, you can see the dictators as children, as self-absorbed aspirants, or perhaps as angels on the other side. Behind these main figures are their rulers and young men.

The room is lit with an intimate red and yellow light, with light from the world of imagination. Among these, you can find words and images referring to George W. Bush, referred to as God's chosen one, which can be read in the Bible or interpreted differently. Words and pictures flow together in the minimal space where visitors are alone. Here one can ask oneself what explanations the Black Box provides after the accident.