The arrangement of the objects seems random at first glance, but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that they are carefully curated representations of everyday items. Novo’s work challenges viewers to reconsider the value and significance of these objects, inviting them to ponder the meaning of material possessions in a world where displacement and uncertainty are prevalent.
Amalia Caputo’s contribution to the exhibition takes a more introspective approach, with a series of intimate photographs that explore themes of memory, identity, and loss. Her images capture fleeting moments and subtle gestures, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of displacement and longing. Through her lens, Caputo creates a sense of quiet contemplation, allowing viewers to connect with the emotions and stories embedded within each frame.
As visitors move through the exhibition space, they are confronted with a range of emotions and perspectives that challenge preconceived notions about migration, identity, and belonging. The artworks in “Tactics for Remembering” serve as powerful reminders of the human cost of political upheaval and the enduring resilience of those who are forced to leave their homes in search of a better future.
In a time of heightened political tensions and uncertainty, exhibitions like this offer a much-needed space for reflection and dialogue. By centering the voices and experiences of Cuban and Venezuelan artists, the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington provides a platform for marginalized communities to share their stories and reclaim their narratives. As visitors leave the exhibition, they are left with a renewed sense of empathy and understanding, inspired to engage more deeply with the complex issues surrounding migration and displacement in our increasingly interconnected world. The exhibition features a collection of objects that are both familiar and unexpected, evoking a sense of nostalgia and contemplation. Some items, such as a margarita glass or a juice pitcher, are instantly recognizable, while others are abstract and unidentifiable. Each object is a hollow vessel, designed for endless emptiness, to be filled and emptied repeatedly. The artist, Novo, explains that pouring a solid into these vessels disrupts their function, cancelling the everyday rituals and cultural processes attached to them.
The stark white forms stand out against the black gallery wall, appearing ghostly from a distance but revealing their mass up close. The tension between form and function, presence and absence, makes each object feel like a symbol of memory. Novo relates the works to his experience of moving from Cuba to the US in 2021, describing the feeling of emptiness and void that accompanied leaving everything behind. The pieces serve as a physical representation of this condition, a field of vessels devoid of interior yet somehow more present than before.
In contrast to Novo’s work, Caputo’s video installation depicts a woman dragging a dollhouse along a beach, symbolizing the weight of home and the process of migration. The dollhouse breaks apart, entangling the woman in ropes as she continues to pull it behind her. The piece explores themes of womanhood, exile, and migration, highlighting the challenges faced by women as they navigate displacement and loss.
The exhibition as a whole reflects on the sacrifices inherent in crossing borders and starting anew. It delves into the concept of loss and what we choose to carry with us in times of upheaval. The objects serve as triggers for memories and reflections on our history, reminding us of the ephemeral nature of solidity and the importance of preserving our stories.
In a time of escalating tensions and uncertainty, the exhibition offers a poignant reminder of the shared experiences of migration and displacement. Through art, the artists invite us to consider the weight of what we leave behind and the resilience required to forge ahead in the face of adversity. As R. Delgado aptly puts it, “We have a responsibility to continue our history.” The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about many challenges and changes to our everyday lives. One of the most significant impacts has been on the way we work. With many companies implementing remote work policies to help stop the spread of the virus, the traditional office environment has been replaced with virtual meetings and home offices.
While remote work has its benefits, such as saving time and money on commuting, it also comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest issues that employees are facing is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Without the separation of the office and home, it can be difficult to switch off from work and relax.
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