Demonstrations
There is a certain element of classical theatre to a demonstration; the unity of place, time and action, from the Place de la République to the Bastille, for an afternoon of commemoration, slogans and demands. A demonstration is often a time of egalitarian and fraternal celebration, when the legitimacy and gravity of the moment can take on a slight air of comedy. Sometimes though, the tension and anger turn the demonstration into a tragedy as when the army or police forces open fire on the people...
For the artist, painter or photographer, a demonstration also offers the opportunity to confront his own subjectivity and political involvement. History is not necessarily the same for one person as for another. While some merely bear witness, others actively condemn.
