Life Guard ≠N.U.O. 0950.05

Studio Orta - 0930.05

Date: 2005
Ref: 0930.05
Materials: Military Stretcher bed, diverse fabrics, silkscreen print
Dimensions: 57 x 8 x 248 cm
Exhibition history: 2019 Museo Salvatore Ferragamo, Firenze, Italy
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.