Creative High Risk

Photo credits: Christian Cely
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Christian David Cely Morales

2015
Mixed, assembly, wood, aluminum, paint.
variable dimensions.

This tiny sculpture depicts cramped, miserable houses without public services, built from discarded materials such as cans, planks, and cardboard. Amidst the precariousness stands an electoral banner used as a curtain, displaying in reverse: SANTOS PRESIDENTE. The work presents a paradox by combining two seemingly incompatible ideas: poverty and elections. The artist challenges Articles 51 of the Constitution, which guarantees dignified housing, and 258 regarding the electoral process and the rights to vote and be elected. Indeed, the Constitutional Court in rulings T-682 of 2011 and T-420 of 2018 states that electoral matters must improve citizens’ lives and overcome the precarious realities embodied in this small yet clear work of art.