Antarctica Drop Parachute

Studio Orta - 5063_a.jpg
Studio Orta - 5063_b.jpg

Date: 2008
Ref: 5064
Materials: Steel frame, various textiles, flags, silkscreen print, webbing, Red Cross crate, various objects, children's toys and shoes
Dimensions: 120cm diameter, suspended from ceiling at variable height
Catalogued: Lucy + Jorge Orta: Food Water Life, Princeton Architectural Press, NY, p.41
Exhibition history: 2012 Tufts University Gallery, USA; 2010 Ete des Arts Auxois; 2009 Hauger Art Museum Norway; 2008 Hangar Bicocca Milan; Galleria Continua Le Moulin
Courtesy: Lucy + Jorge Orta

The Drop Parachute sculpture descending from the sky is modelled after ones that are used to rapidly distribute vital humanitarian supplies, in inaccessible areas. Lucy + Jorge Orta’s drop parachute versions are constructed from a patchwork of fabrics and flags from different nations, with an array of objects such as water gourds, utensils, kitchen supplies or soft toys attached. The sculpture refers both to humanity’s physical and material survival as well as its spiritual needs, particularly the recovery of solidarity.