The Artist Fia Backström Explores Community, Without the People

Fia Backström's exhibition at the Queens Museum explores the concept of community without directly depicting people. Through photos, textiles, and videos, the artist examines the Great Society program from the perspective of the marginalized. The exhibition delves into the complex relationships between individuals, institutions, and the broader societal structures that shape their experiences. By focusing on the physical spaces and infrastructures associated with the Great Society, Backström invites viewers to consider the lived realities and challenges faced by underrepresented communities. The artworks serve as a means to uncover the intricacies of social and political dynamics, shedding light on the gaps between the ideals of community development and the realities experienced by those on the fringes. Through this approach, Backström encourages the audience to reflect on the ways in which power, resources, and access are distributed within a society.