We krwi: Naruszenia integralności wizerunku papieża 2000-2020
In Blood: Violations of the Integrity of the Pope’s Image 2000–2020

Summary/Abstract: This article discusses two social performances, namely the violations of the integrity of Maurizio Cattelan’s sculpture La Nona Ora (2000) and Jerzy Kalina’s installation Zatrute źródło [Poisoned Spring] (2020). Based on performance analysis, the author seeks to establish what the intervention (action) was about and on whose behalf it was undertaken (aim). Using concepts taken from the works of Pierre Bourdieu and Manuel Castells, she explains the scandal potential of both works. The main context of the analysis is the image of John Paul II in Polish culture and public space; an additional context is provided by the protest against the tightening of anti-abortion law (2020). The analysis reveals the mechanism of both events: the artwork disrupted (2000) / represented (2020) the order of legitimate culture, therefore it triggered performative actions aimed at defending and maintaining (2000) / disrupting and changing (2020) the status quo. In both cases, the dominant image of John Paul II in the discursive space was violated (in 2000 – by the artwork; in 2020 – by the performance of women activists)

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