Out Of Business

Out Of Business is an art installation with nine shutters riddled with bullet holes and shrapnel. The shutters were personally collected by the artist from the devastated areas of Mosul, Iraq in March 2017.

The inspiration for Out Of Business emerged in 2016, during the peak of the European refugee crisis. The tensions stemming from this crisis fueled a surge in nationalistic racism across Europe. Witnessing the hostile and unsympathetic reactions towards those seeking refuge from the horrors of war prompted Boccanegra to question the reasons behind such responses.

According to him, a significant factor contributing to this lack of empathy is the Western world's limited understanding of the true nature of war. Despite the constant portrayal of war in the media, it remains an abstract concept for many. To bridge this gap, the artist aimed to create a visual representation of the impact of war, enabling people to witness the harsh realities that drive individuals to flee their homes.

Each shutter within the installation bears the scars of bullets and shrapnel, serving as tangible evidence of the destruction inflicted upon Mosul. Some shutters even feature markings made by ISIS, further emphasizing the terror experienced in the region. The colors of the shutters indicate the types of shops they once belonged to, showcasing the diverse range of businesses that fell victim to the ravages of war. However, due to the destruction of the buildings, precise identifications are not always possible.

The artist obtained the shutters with the permission of their owners, as well as the Iraqi and Kurdish armed forces, ensuring a respectful and collaborative approach to the installation.