Lens on law: Edges of proximity

At the heart of this exhibition are three distinctive artistic projects, created by photographers Salome Erni, Daria Radu, and Anastasia Troshkova, each of whom brings a unique approach to visualising the complexities of international law.

Daria Radu demystifies the architecture of international legal institutions in The Hague in her work [RESTRICTED]. By capturing the human elements and hidden imperfections of buildings like the International Criminal Court and International Court of Justice, she probes the accessibility of justice and questions its reach beyond imposing facades.

Anastasia Troshkova, in A Testimony of Birdwatching, investigates the dual use of consumer drones in modern warfare and their impact on international law. Using Polaroid imagery, she juxtaposes the detached gaze of drone operators with the visceral realities of their actions, prompting questions about accountability in an era of remote-controlled warfare. The scenography is crafted by Boris Steiner.

Salome Erni delves into the contentious arbitration case between ExxonMobil and the Netherlands in her work inspired by the Groningen gas exploitation controversy. Her installation critiques the inaccessibility of investor-state dispute settlements (ISDS) and questions the alignment of legal frameworks with public interests amidst corporate and state dynamics.

During a three-month artist in residency at the Asser Institute, the artists collaborated with legal scholars to create projects that demystify international legal frameworks, institutions, and mechanisms. Through their works, the artists not only highlight the human dimensions of law but also interrogate its accessibility, transparency, and societal impact.