NO GUN, NO RESPECT !
No gun no respect is a new series of paintings. Unfortunately, it is also a slogan reflecting the spirit of the age in which we are living.
The idea is universal as it is the idea represented in the paintings. This slogan also holds significance in the manner where it exceeds characteristics and contextualization of the imperial tendencies founded in fear. By this means we are presented with the true answer regarding the times we live in. Respect nowadays is based on fear and is deprived of humanity, moreover English word respect reminds us of Hollywood thriller movies where respect holds the logic and power of the brand closely connected to profit. Also, this title given in English globalizes the problem and transcends it to the fields of pop culture but of politics as well.
Mass media has been exploiting this idea by putting it in binary opposition as a main principle. If you need arms to gain respect, the allusion is that the other side is corrupt and that the use of force is necessary in other to establish oneself properly in the world. This assumption has created its opposition, an anti-mechanism based on aggression. In the 20th century in particular it being the era of technological progress and applied economical postmodernism (Antonio Negri) that ant-mechanism could be perceived through activities of various terrorist organizations. During 70s in Europe a terrorist group RAF considered itself a synergy of revolutionaries, visionaries and artists. This trend continued by strengthening of global oppression so did hegemony and terrorist retaliation, 9/11 was considered an art masterpiece by some artists (Stockhausen).
In conclusion, this slogan in pop culture and politics brought about the aggravation of the crisis and firmer establishing of the world order where the force holds the right and the other have to abide to the powerful. (most recent examples we find in Kosovo and Iraq).
from catalogue "No gun, no respect" by Mr Vladislav Šćepanović - Belgrade, Serbia 2008.