PPPPPPP

“Pascal’s Perfect Probability Pyramid and The People Paradox – The Predicament” by Agnes Denes is a society depicted in a pyramid shape format. It appears as though individuals are trapped within this structure, yet, they are unaware of it as the individualized illustrations appear to be alienated from one another. From far away, it appears as though all of them look the same but upon closer inspection, it is clear that they’re differentiated. This pyramid represents a greater structure within our society, that we can’t leave for we are what makes up that system. The artist further clarifies this when she asks us to, ‘read the figures [as] they are you’.

The space that PPPPPPP is placed in is off significance.  The piece is placed above a flight of stairs, which allows the viewer to fully experience the piece. Standing far away the viewer can only make out of the image the pyramid structure, but as they begin going up the stairs they are able to see the individualized figures up until the very top of the pyramid. This specific placement allows the audience to participate in the work. In addition, the work is placed in The New School’s cafeteria, the most common space for students to spend time. Since the artist aims to target the general public, the placement in the cafeteria allows her to target a wider range of audience. Therefore, such placement can further emphasize her intention, you can remain individualized within a structure (the school for example) and you are the creator of your structure.

The artist also makes use of ‘Good Gestalt’ to illustrate her intention. Firstly, the artist manipulates proximity throughout the work. Some areas in the piece feature individuals really close to each other almost as though they are forming one straight line, and other areas feature individuals far apart to highlight their uniqueness and individuality. The artist also makes use of closure, the figures aren’t placed in a manner that forms a pyramid but the viewer is able to see that pyramid which highlights that a structure exists in our society even if we don’t see it. In addition, the artist makes use of continuance as the image creates a staircase which guides the viewer’s eye to the top further emphasizing on the structure. Lastly, to further draw emphasis, the piece is placed on a solid background.