Foreigners Out! Schlingensief's Container

Overview

A provocative blend of art and activism, FOREIGNERS OUT! SCHLINGENSIEFS CONTAINER captures Christoph Schlingensief's audacious protest against Austria's rising xenophobia in 2000. Following the FPÖ's ascendance to government, he erected a mock concentration camp in Vienna's bustling center, challenging spectators to confront their complicity in hate politics. This modern "camp," equipped with cameras reminiscent of reality TV shows like "Big Brother," allowed passersby to observe asylum seekers under surveillance, blurring the lines between entertainment and ethical responsibility. Schlingensief's work serves as a biting commentary on society's desensitization to suffering and the absurdity of contemporary media culture.