phot.

Mariusz Michalski, Barbara Wjcik

Krzysztof Wodiczko The Alien Staff, 1992

Curator: Milada liziska

The Alien Staff is an instrument referring to Christian iconography, resembling a biblical shepherds
stick. It consists of a small monitor and speaker. Designed with immigrants in mind, the staff was to help
them strike up conversations, to overcome their fears and feelings of isolation. The work, therefore, is
multidimensional, not only artistic, but social, and also very personal. Here, the instrument becomes an
extension of the body, something easing survival in an alien world, and helping gain acceptance. Helping
in the development of the idea of The Alien Staff were Rzecznik obcego [Spokesman for the Stranger]
(1994), Egida [Aegis] (1998), and Roz-Broja (2000). Based on the theory of xenology, the artist drew
attention to the problems of communication in public space. He also commenced a critical analysis of
the function of public space as an area of communication. Presented in the exhibition were photographs
as well as a film documenting actions in which The Alien Staff was used by immigrants in Warsaw in
December of 1994 and January of 1995. They arouse in connection with the exhibition Krzysztof Wodiczko, Projections and Public Projects 1969-1995 at the CCA Ujazdowski Castle (30.01 03.31.1995)
Krzysztof Wodiczko (b. 1943) multi-media artist, outstanding representative of critical art, art theorist, lecturer, and designer. He studied at the Faculty of Industrial Design at the Academy of Fine
Arts in Warsaw. His research focuses on the issues of authority and freedom. His projects often
draw attention to important issues that are often marginalized in official discourse. He is attempting
to give a voice to those most excluded: immigrants, veterans, and the homeless.