conceptual artist filipe vilas-boas continues to ironically question our use of digital media and its ethical implications with his ‘carrying the cross’ performance. having previously taken to the streets of lisbon, this time, the artist travelled to london, where he carried a giant ‘f’ around tate modern gallery.
all images courtesy of filipe vilas-boas
constructed from timber and nails, and measuring 340 x 200 x 50 cm, vilas-boas conceived the giant sculptural ‘f’ as a commentary on social media. it was carried by the artist around tate modern on 22 september 2019, ready for crucifixion, marking the pinnacle moment of the performance. the piece aims to stimulate discussion of the issues surrounding digital platforms such as privacy, data, surveillance and algorithm biases.
the cross being erected
the procession was originally conceived as part of ‘eden’, vilas-boas’ solo show at zaratan arte contemporânea in lisbon during july 2019. ‘carrying the cross’ draws on the emotiveness of hope and oppression within the parameters of digitalisation where technology meets religion.
public ‘digital crucifixion’
the public performance by filipe vilas-boas is part of the ‘higher resolution’ programme at tate exchange with hyphen labs. from september 17-29, 2019, the tate modern workshop questioned our relationships with digital platforms, the power behind technology and how art can be used as a tool of intervention. the performance will also happen again in lyon, france, in mid november during the superdemain digital festival.
carrying the cross – the first act
carrying the cross – the second act
outside tate modern
the procession
the artist filipe vilas boas carrying the cross around tate modern with the help of visitors
the cross being erected
public ‘digital crucifixion’
project info:
project name: carrying the cross
artist: filipe vilas-boas
production: hyphen labs x tate exchange
camera: catriona whiteford, filipe pais
music #1: requiem – libera me, gabriel fauré
music #2: requiem – wolgang amadeus mozart
designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: lynne myers | designboom
