Fellow NOE artist and ArtSpace curator Mark Maher interviewed Jiri Geller about his work.

One of the things I most enjoy about your work is that you’ve managed to stay connected to Finnish aesthetic strengths and traditions (such as minimalism, a focus on the elemental, a fascination with new technology, a recognition of how dark the world can be), but also project such a global, post-national, snarky, bad-boy, playful vibe. Do you define yourself as a “Finnish artist”?

“Finnish artist”? I’ve rather defined myself as an outsider, a punkrocker, but if you put it that way, why not.

Your “Flaming Sony Playstation Handset” is an obvious crowd-pleaser. I find myself going back and forth between the opinion that it is successful (and intended only) for a rather narrow audience of bored young screen-jockeys – and that it is a larger and wiser work…a true “signpost” for our age. Care to give a clue about your intentions?

Sure, it is a large and wise work, as well as it is simple and stupid. Ever since Jurassic Park we have seen all the digital tricks in games and movies, so nothing is amazing anymore. But in the real world you might get your fingers burned - while playing the game. Also, It is a post 9.11 piece. All this security bullshit.. .and how come it doesn’t melt? It’s made of metal…sucker! That’s the trick.

What’s with the name “Jiri Geller”? Uri Geller is perhaps the most famous charlatan psychic of our era. What’s the connection with him are you suggesting – or is it just uncool to even ask?

Uri is friends with Michael Jackson - that is cool. Both of us are making tricks for living. I like the way that people get suspicious when thinking they might be cheated. Like: `Could this guy’s name really be Jiri Geller´. Well, they should be suspicious. We’ve all been cheated big time.

Tags: Interview, Jiri Geller, Mark Maher

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