In the spring of 2020, August Eriksson placed his sign Var uppmärksam (Pay attention) in different locations around Stockholm, asking the observer to focus. The work is based on an aluminium sign with the words Var uppmärksam in black on a yellow background with a red border, resembling a traffic sign.
The actual work arises in the relationship between the sign and the surroundings where it is erected. A traffic sign must have straightforward, unambiguous and easy-to-read prompts. Eriksson uses this form of public imperative to express something ambiguous, demanding and existential.
The first part of the project was shown at the group exhibition Tyst vår (Silent Spring) next to Kaknästornet in Stockholm in spring 2020. In the second part, Eriksson installed the signs in different parts of Stockholm’s public space and photographed them.
In August and September 2020, SSE Art Initiative exhibited a selection of these photographs at the school. One of the signs was also placed on SSE’s imposing gate, asking everyone who passed to pay attention.
What deserves our attention in a time of endless information, possibilities and distractions?
