A large installation of suspended weights and pulleys welcomes visitors into the exhibition, “Carlos Garaicoa: All Utopias Go Through the Belly”. The dynamic, linear installation '(Contrapeso (Ciudad plomada) [Counterweight (Plumb Line City)]', 2022 has small metal weights, some found, others made, anchored to the ground, that resemble tiny buildings, with gleaming brass counter-weights in various shapes and symbols suspended above. There is a tension in the visually alluring installation, the crossing diagonals and play of forms; the weights on the floor appear like model buildings with puppet strings, which, if pulled slightly, might alter the arrangement. It’s a reminder of cause and effect, that if you adjust something one way, consequences will ensue, be it in urban planning, preservation, politics or nature.
For thirty years, Carlos Garaicoa has explored themes of architecture, mainly urban architecture, often in varying states of decay. Through photographs, videos and installations, the artist reveals the fragility and organic nature of our urban surroundings.