Minna Väisänen: Minun puolueeni / My Party

Completion year: 2011

Technique: Performance

In March and April 2011, I did a series of “performances” in which I discussed with bypassing people about the Finnish Parliamental election system. I also asked them for any ideas on new political parties in Finland. I promised to send the best of these ideas to all already registered political parties in Finland before the election in 2011. These "performances" were performed in the Three Smiths Square in Helsinki before the actual election day.

Most of the passers-by avoided contact with me. Many stared at the black-and-white flyers I handed them. Should they have been in colors? I did not give the flyer if the person did not discuss with me. Only a few persons took the flyer.

On April 3rd, I sent by e-mail the new proposed party names to all registered parties in Finland. On April 4th, I added that some people think that there are already too many parties in Finland.

I asked the recipients to kindly acknowledge both messages. Kokoomus, Suomen ruotsalainen kansanpuolue, Vasemmistoliitto, Suomen Kommunistinen Puolue, Itsenäisyyspuolue and Vapauspuolue responded to my my emails.

Photo Habib Rahman 26th of March 2011.

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