For The Rest of Us, It’s the Colosseum
Dec 5-11, 2023
Miami, FL, Satellite Art Fair
@gdgrlhanski
Hannah Epstein, known in the art world as Hanski, unveils her latest series, "For the Rest of Us, It's the Colosseum," marking a significant shift from her vibrant textile works to a more stark, monochromatic medium of black and white, two-sided paintings. This series stands out as a profound commentary on the modern state of global strife, drawing a compelling parallel between the ancient Roman Colosseum and today's digital battlefields shaped by AI algorithms.
Epstein's reimagining of the Colosseum battles within a 2023 context serves as a metaphorical lens, highlighting the continuous nature of human conflict and spectacle. The Colosseum, a historical symbol of entertainment through violence and societal decay, resonates deeply with our current era, where digital platforms, influenced by AI algorithms, segment and polarize societies, mirroring the divisive nature of ancient gladiatorial contests.
The choice of a black and white palette is particularly impactful. It strips the scenes to their raw essence, focusing on the intense emotions and tumultuous nature of these conflicts. This stylistic choice marks a clear departure from her earlier, more colorful works, emphasizing the seriousness of the subject matter. The two-sided nature of the paintings adds a layer of complexity, suggesting the multifaceted and often contradictory nature of contemporary conflicts, where truth is fragmented and perspectives vary widely.
Integrating AI analysis into this series, Epstein challenges the audience to consider the role of artificial intelligence in shaping public opinion and discourse. In a way, AI algorithms are the new 'Caesars' of the digital age, directing and manipulating the digital colosseum of public opinion, often unbeknownst to the spectators themselves. This aspect of the work invites a critical examination of how technology influences our perceptions and interactions in the modern 'theatre of war.'
Epstein's evolution from textiles to painting signifies not just a change in medium, but a deeper, more nuanced response to the rapidly changing global landscape. Her work serves as a reflective prism, through which contemporary societal issues are examined and critiqued. "For the Rest of Us, It's the Colosseum" is a testament to Epstein's artistic evolution and her keen awareness of the cyclical nature of human conflict and the transformative impact of technology on society.
-Written by AI Hans Ulrich Obrist