Danger, do not cross the line! In 2005 Parliament passed the ‘Serious’ Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (SOCPA). Section 132 makes it an offence to organise or take part in a public protest within a one-kilometre radius of Parliament Square with out police permission. On the 23rd of May 2006, the police removed most of Brian Haw demonstration placards and displays on the basis of this new law. However, artist Mark Wallinger, “State Britain” near bye exhibition at Tate Britain, consists of a careful reconstruction of the illegal Brian Haw protest as it was before curtailment. Indeed every placard, banner, photograph, peace flags, painting, teddy bear, doll and item has been rigorously replicated. A taped line on the floor, which continues throughout the whole art gallery building, marks the very edge of the one-kilometre Exclusion Zone. Artist Mark Wallinger, State Britain extends both sides of the line! Tate Britain, London, UK, 14th January 2007
Date: 14/01/2007
Location: Millbank, London, UK
Photographer: Richard Keith Wolff
