Meriem Bennani's 'Sole crushing' animates 201 flip-flops at Lafayette Anticipations
Meriem Bennani's installation 'Sole crushing' at Lafayette Anticipations in Paris features 201 flip-flops animated by a pneumatic system, performing a musical score composed with Reda Senhaji (aka Cheb Runner). The work explores collective joy and uprising, drawing on Moroccan dakka marrakchia ritual and Federico García Lorca's concept of duende. Each sandal is connected to two tubes controlling movement, with claps programmed via an electric keyboard. The installation was first exhibited at Fondazione Prada in Milan in 2024–25 and has been adapted for Lafayette Anticipations with new instruments and composition. Bennani chose the sandal for its malleability and ubiquity, referencing its presence in ancient Egypt 4,000 years ago.
Key facts
- Meriem Bennani created 'Sole crushing' for Lafayette Anticipations in Paris.
- The installation includes 201 flip-flops animated by a pneumatic system.
- The musical score was composed with Reda Senhaji (aka Cheb Runner).
- The work references Moroccan dakka marrakchia ritual and Federico García Lorca's duende.
- Each flip-flop has two tubes: one receives air to move, the other halts movement.
- The sandals' claps are programmed via an electric keyboard connected to a computer.
- First exhibited at Fondazione Prada in Milan in 2024–25.
- The sandal has been worn for 4,000 years, dating back to ancient Egypt.
Entities
Artists
- Meriem Bennani
- Reda Senhaji (Cheb Runner)
- Federico García Lorca
Institutions
- Lafayette Anticipations
- Fondazione Prada
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Milan
- Italy