Sunday 27 May 2007, 10.00–18.00

Veja meu Bem

Work by the Brazilian artist known as Marepe (b 1970) has evolved from a deep connection with the local traditions, customs and materials of Bahia, the north eastern region of Brazil where he lives. He uses everyday consumer objects as the material for his sculptures, transforming them and imbuing them with poetic qualities. Marepe often uses his sculptures, such as a rudimentary instrument made from two metal wash basins titled Acoustic Head (1996), as a part of participatory social rituals that are open to everybody.

Marepe describes the work for Tate, Veja meu Bem, which has been commissioned for UBS Openings:The Long Weekend, thus:

“This installation is inspired by the one of my poems from the early 90's, "Untitled", which symbolically narrates the image of a beautiful, yet precarious, Brazil. Within the text one of the characters invites another to observe details of a dreamy landscape here represented by the carousel. The roof of which has been constructed from foil packaging; the residue of consumer products. A representation of a flame sits at the top. The artificial fire and coloured lamps (green, yellow, blue and white) make reference to Brazil; the childish universe represented by a carnival also alludes to this juvenile nation.

The apples that have fallen onto the surroundings and onto the table complement the dreams of desire and abundance.

Tate Modern  Turbine Hall
Free, no bookings taken