Devices for Action: The Work of Nomeda & Gediminas Urbonas

Nomeda and Gediminas Urbonas produce interactive projects exploring the conflicts and contradictions of former Soviet republics and their recent transition to capitalism. Born in Lithuania and now living in Vilnius, these artists use the city as a catalyst and a starting point for their analysis of the various impacts caused by a new economic, social and political model on different sectors and generations in society. Their work engages everyday public and political social spaces. Though their works focus on local issues in Lithuania, they are imbued with a symbolism that extends to embrace other societies that have experienced 20th century expressions of modernity. Developping over different stages, their projects are characterised by the key role played by the idea of the archive, the engagement of experts in different fields (design, music, architecture), and the participation of diverse communities and collective actions.