The Tower: A Songspiel
2010
Chto Delat
video (colour, sound), duration 36:51 min.
tijdsduur / duration 00:36:52
currently not on display
acquired in 2012
inventory number 3060
The Van Abbemuseum Collection consists of over 3600 artworks. We publish texts and images on an ongoing basis, but this record is currently in the process of being documented.
If you need specific information on this work or artist, remember that the Van Abbemuseum Library is at your disposal, or feel free to write to the library.
Description
Russian art collective Chto Delat chose musical theatre for this socially engaged story. 'The Tower: A Songspiel' is based on a conflict that arose around the plans for the Okhta Centre in Saint Petersburg. The 403 m skyscraper was to house gas company Gazprom’s headquarters. Despite protests from residents of the UNESCO-listed city, Gazprom obtained all required permits. The skyscraper was promoted by authorities as a symbol of a new, modern Russia. The video shows how such symbols are created and what methods the authorities use to execute their plans.
