Natuurlijk

With hundreds of different types of butt cleaners in store, Ghita Skali’s exhibition Natuurlijk questions what is seen as natural in regard to hygiene and cleanliness. Skali’s new video work tells the story of a proud Dutchman, who works at the flower market and is looking for a watering can to keep his tulips alive. During his quest, he shockingly discovers that the cans are being used for different purposes… Through humour, caricature and stereotyping, the artist discusses existing power relations regarding the definition of hygiene that stem from a colonial past. Skali shows how what’s ‘natural’ is a cultural construct, carrying bias. Who decides what is normal and what is not? How to clean your teeth or butt?