The artwork, titled “Geste: Me Cacher Sous un Drap au Milieu d’une Place Publique,” was created by the artist Ben in 1971. This piece falls within the Conceptual Art movement and belongs to the figurative genre. The artwork consists of two black-and-white photographs depicting a person sitting in a public square, covered by a draped cloth.
In the artwork, the person is situated in the middle of a public place, evocatively engaging with the setting by concealing themselves under the drapery. This act, as described in the accompanying text, was performed by the artist who positioned himself on a stool and covered himself with the cloth, remaining there for approximately five minutes. The backdrop consists of urban scenery, with buildings, vehicles, and palm trees, placing the gesture in an identifiable public space. This conceptual piece challenges viewers to reflect on themes of presence, absence, and the boundaries of public and private spaces.
