Moon-Walking on the Moon

The art project Moon-Walking on the Moon by Pau/a presents a compelling commentary on contemporary society through the exploration of the intersection of settler colonialism, neoliberalism, and the concept of lunar occupation. Informed by the works of Wendy Brown and Ivan Asher, the project highlights the pervasive influence of possessive capital, framing all spheres of existence in economic terms and metrics. The artists imagine a future in which neoliberalism colonises both time and space, leaving lunar settlers trapped in a sterile and nostalgia-laden environment.

The project centers on the concept of “reflective nostalgia,” as articulated by Svetlana Boym, and seeks to create a space that is ironic, fragmentary, and tactile. Through various elements, such as a sculpture garden of private relics left behind on Earth, the installation invites reflection on the potential consequences of settler colonialism in space and the role of nostalgia in shaping our future.

Moreover, the artists use the act of walking as a means to explore the connections between Earth and the Moon and how lunar occupation might affect our perceptions of both. By raising critical questions about the impact of neoliberal capitalism on our society, Pau/a offers a compelling commentary on the challenges we face and the importance of exploring new frontiers of thought and creativity outside of existing paradigms. The project demonstrates the power of art to provoke thought and stimulate meaningful conversation on pressing issues of our time.