Performance Art and Museum Ethics: A Case Study
In June, Brazilian artist Ilê Sartuzi pulled a historical coin from its display case at the British Museum in London and deposited it in a donation box in the museum’s lobby. This performance art piece, titled “Sleight of Hand,” was part of his graduate MFA thesis exhibition. The event has sparked a debate about heritage, access to museum collections, and the safety and security of museums.
Sartuzi, a student at Goldsmiths, University of London, spent a year planning the “theft” of the coin. He worked with a lawyer to ensure the legality of his actions. He replaced the original coin with a replica and ensured no laws were broken. However, the ethical implications of the performance, which aimed to highlight the ethics of collecting, remain a subject of discussion.
The artist chose an English civil war-era coin for his performance, citing its irony as one of the few British objects in the British Museum. This choice plays on the ongoing debate surrounding the historic acquisition of objects from around the world, especially by European collectors.
The British Museum has been under scrutiny regarding its acquisition, retention, and repatriation of objects from around the world. While the institution has taken steps toward reparation and inclusive dialogue on the ownership and care of its collections, Sartuzi’s performance highlights the continued need for discussion.
Beyond the core message, the performance raised concerns about trust and safety. Museum workers were unwittingly involved in the performance, including a volunteer who unknowingly “lost” the original coin during a session where the public was allowed to handle museum objects.
This incident raises questions about the balance between public access to museum collections and the need for security. Should museums implement stricter security measures in light of such incidents?
The “Sleight of Hand” performance has sparked a debate on the ethical implications of museum practices and the role of performance art in highlighting social and cultural issues. It raises important questions about trust, ownership, and the value of historical artifacts.
