Richard Mosse's thermal imaging exhibit at Barbican explores refugee crisis via military surveillance technology.
From February 15 to April 23, Richard Mosse's exhibition at the Barbican Centre in London showcases thermal imaging pieces that capture the realities of refugee camps and areas affected by conflict. Utilizing military-grade surveillance technology, the Irish artist produces haunting images. "Grid (Moria)" (2017) offers a view of the Moria refugee camp in Greece from several kilometers away across 16 screens. The work "Skaramaghas" (2016) depicts the Greek camp as a triptych featuring ethereal figures. Additionally, the three-channel video "Incoming" (2014–17) portrays scenes from the Syrian war. Mosse's earlier piece, "The Enclave" (2013), focused on the civil war in Congo. This exhibition prompts reflection on representation, distance, and the dehumanization of refugees.
Key facts
- Richard Mosse exhibition at Barbican Centre, London from February 15 to April 23
- Features thermal imaging works documenting refugee camps in Greece and conflict in Syria
- Grid (Moria) (2017) surveys Moria refugee camp on Lesbos using military thermal camera
- Skaramaghas (2016) presents Greek refugee camp as triptych resembling Bruegel paintings
- Incoming (2014–17) is three-channel video recording Syrian conflict from Turkish border
- Mosse previously documented Congo civil war in The Enclave (2013) using infrared technology
- Artist records subjects without consent from considerable distance using bulky equipment
- Exhibition raises questions about representation, distance, and potential dehumanization
Entities
Artists
- Richard Mosse
- John Gerrard
- Trevor Paglen
Institutions
- Barbican Centre
- ArtReview
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Lesbos
- Greece
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Syria
- Turkey
- Athens