Civilian Defense

2007

Dan Peterman

textile, sand

ø ca. 6m

Currently not on display

Acquired in 2008

Inventory number 2921

met steun van / with support of the VriendenLoterij

dismantling Civilian Defense

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Description

The ancient circular shape of 'Civilian Defense' invites the viewer to unite as a community; to talk, to eat, to discuss disagreements, or to relax. This installation of about 1000 sandbags is inspired by the customs of Arabic Bedouin tribes. Empty sandbags can easily be transported. Filled locally with desert sand, they serve as seating. The multi-coloured bags are inspired by the vivid trade in textiles in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE. Sandbags are also used to build bunkers or as protection against floods. Dan Peterman is interested in the relations between economy, ecology, and cultural systems.

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Context

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