Urban Life Guard - Ambulatory Sleeping Linen

Studio Orta - 0816
Studio Orta - 0950_b.jpg

Date: 2002
Ref: 0821
Materials: Folding campbed structure, various fabrics, silkscreen print
Dimensions: 200 x 90 x 75cm
Courtesy: Lucy + Jorge Orta

Since 2002, Lucy Orta has been experimenting with Red Cross army surplus articles, stitching and incorporating bivouacs and overalls onto the linen canvases of camp-beds and first-aid stretchers. The rigid frames of the beds act as a framing device and their former function takes on a new meaning as the body is made more visible through the fabric additions. The figures seem to be supported by the frames of the beds, or supporting others – “Life Guard”, the body is also a fragile structure in need of warmth and protection.