State of Union

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Art evokes reaction. In some cases it has a wonderful way of bringing forth societal themes that are hidden in plain sight yet, when revealed, seem almost surreal.

The most thought-provoking piece on a recent visit to the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology (MATT) in Lisbon, was by the Portuguese artist, Filipe Vilas-Boas, who subtly edits the American and Chinese flag to symbolise the current state of our interconnected and quantitive society – where our daily paths and activities leave a trail.

Data recorded and lives rated in what almost appears like a computer game. ‘The artist makes reference to the power and omnipresence of the social network’.

Photography + Words
Kristian Hyde