PERFORMANCE ART
Hoover (2024) marks a powerful reimagining of Cansu Pylkkänen’s 2020 performance, this time staged during her solo exhibition opening at Koola Art Space. The artist spelled out the word ‘exclusion’ using thread on the floor, then methodically hoovered it away starting from outside of the exhibition venue in front of pedestrians and audience. The act served as a poignant critique of societal exclusion and a call for inclusivity.
Through the symbolic erasure of the word, Pylkkänen challenges the audience to reflect on the barriers and divisions that persist in society. Her performance transforms a simple, repetitive domestic act into a deeply political and emotional statement.
To exclude is to deny humanity. Through this performance, I wanted to highlight the power of collective action to sweep away divisions and make space for belonging,
Cansu Pylkkänen
The performance resonated with themes of empowerment and social change, aligning with Pylkkänen’s commitment to using art as a tool for dialogue and reflection.
