Eleven Elements of Violence 1976 - 1977

Editor: Esq Tom Phillips’ "Eleven Elements of Violence," in the Tate Collection, is visually arresting, with its torn paper effect and grid of violent images. What can you tell me about the production of this piece and how that impacts its meaning? Curator: Considering its materiality, observe the contrast between the gold leaf and the raw, torn paper. It suggests a commentary on value, perhaps questioning the perceived preciousness of certain materials versus the brutal reality represented. How might the artist's choices in combining these materials challenge traditional art hierarchies? Editor: That’s fascinating. It makes me think about how even the act of tearing or defacing changes the inherent value of the paper. Curator: Exactly. And the grid format below? Consider how that serial presentation mimics processes of documentation and perhaps even mass production related to violence. I think that highlights a systemic rather than isolated reading of the piece. Editor: I hadn't considered that aspect of it. Thanks for the insights! Curator: My pleasure! It’s all in recognizing the labor and context embedded in the materials and production.