Suspicious Minds

"Suspicious Minds" is a research based piece that explores the intersection of intelligence, espionage and art. This includes investigations into the modes and methodologies in which contemporary intelligence agencies use artistic tools for espionage and surveillance activities.

Public Movement examines the national intelligence service from an artistic perspective, to study its methods and performative practices. At the same time, the group regards the Museum from a conspirative viewpoint, as an organization that mobilizes an international network of connections and agencies. Following the footsteps of the iconic historical example of CIA and MOMA collaboration during the cold war, Public Movement asks: Can Mossad’s repertoire of actions and figures be regarded as a museum collection? How can an art object act as an agent? What insights can be gained from the connection made between these organizations?

In this first chapter of Suspicious Minds ten artworks from Tel Aviv Museum’s collection were removed from the museum's walls and in their place audio stations have been set up. The audio work features recorded telephone conversations between Public Movement, Museum staff, and Mossad figures. The conversations document segments from the work process and expose the mechanisms that shape “The Art of fictioning”.