Miles Marchan (Thousands March) explores the masses as a dynamic social force—oscillating between passivity and spontaneity, yet always embodying a latent energy that shapes history. The work interrogates the masses as both a mirror of contemporary society and a catalyst for collective memory, reflecting the past, present, and future.
The installation captures the essence of the masses as a singular entity, stripping away individuality to reveal a unified, rhythmic movement. Faces, gestures, and political banners are absent; instead, the focus is on the synchronized march of feet, a powerful symbol of collective action and shared purpose. This de-personalization abstracts the masses from their stereotypical representations, inviting viewers to reconsider their role as a transformative social force.
The video unfolds as a perpetual march, extending over one hour without a clear beginning or end. This looping, timeless quality evokes the enduring presence of the masses as both a historical protagonist and a silent, potential energy waiting to be awakened. Miles Marchan challenges viewers to confront the duality of the masses—as a muted referent in one moment and a driving force of change in the next.
Through its minimalist yet evocative imagery, the installation empowers the masses, urging them to shed their camouflage and reclaim their agency. It is a meditation on unity, diversity, and the enduring power of collective action in shaping the social and historical landscape.