Panopticon

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PANOPTICON : Four artists explore observation concepts in our time. The Nunnery Gallery, Bow Road, E3 2SJ (APRIL 19th - 22nd // Private View — APRIL 18th) ….If cameras really add to security of the individual and was where the oppressive regime begins… just what is the right balance between freedom and safety?…. Four international artists (Germany, Austria, UK) explore observation concepts in our time, referring to London and its CCTV system in an exhibition opening at the Nunnery next month. The exhibition - Panopticon - poses the question to its viewers: what is the right balance between freedom and safety? Originally a phrase coined in the 18th century by Jeremy Bentham, a Panopticon allows an observer to observe all inmates of an institution without them being able to tell whether or not they are being watched. Initially, this was utilised as a mechanism of control but now, many years on, the paradigm has apparently changed as control mechanisms are now associated with safety and security. The exhibition displays different positions and interpretations on observation concepts and mechanisms in our time, mainly referring to London and its CCTV system. All four come together in one exhibition for the first time and bring together a show which throws up questions for the viewer of what is safe in modern society and what control really means.