Pedro Reyes concern is with environmental issues and social interaction in public spaces. His work for the Biennale is the fruit of lengthy research: the perfectly aligned garden shovels making up Palas Por Pistolas ("Pistols into Spades") are the outcome of a programme launched by the Mexican government – at the instigation of the artist – for "handing in" illegal weapons so as to stamp them out or at least limit their use. Reyes melted down the metal of 1 527 weapons, which was then used to make shovels for planting trees, with the help of community associations, everywhere the work goes on show. Thus an educational arboretum comprising some twenty different varieties of trees will be planted in October-November at the Hospital for Mothers and Babies in Bron, next-door to Lyon. A film of the action will be shown at the Biennale and in all subsequent exhibition venues.
With the support of the FRAPNA, Rhône and the Lyon Hospitals Trust / With the support of TARVEL.
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