By physical or cognitive means (Broken Window Theory 13 May)
Year: 2019-2020
Medium: ink on paper, emulsion paint, aluminum frame, reinforced broken glass, duct tape
Dimensions: 200 x 148 x 7.5 cm (78 3/4 x 58 1/4 x 3 in.)
Acquired from Taro Nasu, 2022
This work is part of a series that Gander titles “Broken Window Theory.” Although known as a conceptual artist, he has taken an extremely materialistic approach to the composition of this piece. Firstly, the work is placed in a large aluminum frame, the thickness of which gives a remarkable sense of presence when displayed on a wall. As is clear from a glance, the glass surface has been broken into large pieces that are held in place with black duct tape. The tape, which has been affixed with a somewhat rough hand to both sides of the glass, seems to form abstract black and white lines. Perhaps it is because it presupposes itself to be a work of art. The base panel behind the glass is coated with white paint, with traces of dripping paint vividly visible through the glass. An aluminum frame, a dirty wall, and broken glass—this visual information suggests windows smashed as part of a prank or crime in the city. This series is based on criminologist George Kelling’s famous “Broken Windows Theory,” which argues that repairing broken glass, even if only temporarily, plays a role in improving public order when compared to leaving it unattended. It is unclear to what extent Gander himself delved into sociology and criminal psychology as the basis for his work. Nevertheless, it appears certain that the act of repairing broken glass seems to suggest a humanitarian spirit, in contrast to breaking glass as a symbol of a certain kind of violence. Additionally, although not visible in the work, this series is said to contain fragments of fortune cookie paper (fortune-telling slips placed inside baked sweets served in Greater China). What arises from the relationship between violence, morality, and an invisible fortune? Gander’s unique narrative style, which runs through all his works and invites a deep reading, is also on full display here.
