MR SANTIAGO SIERRA_

Image_Los Penetrados_act #01_by MR Santiago Sierra_

2008_black and white photograph_55 x 98 inches_edition of three_team [gallery, inc]_nyc_

[Dear Ms Gonzalez-Sinde,

I am very grateful towards the remembrance and the process of evaluation by which the art professionals have acted. However, in my opinion, prizes are given to those who have provided a service, such as the employee of the month.

It is my wish to express at this time that art has given me a freedom which I am not willing to resign. Consequently, my common sense compels me to reject this award. This award manipulates the prestige of the winner on behalf of the state. A state that cries out for legitimacy with contempt over the mandate to work for the common good regardless of which party is in charge. A state participating in demented wars in alliance with a criminal empire. A state that happily donates our common money to the banking system. A state determined to the dismantling of the welfare system for the benefit of an international and local minority.

The state is not all of us. The state is you and your friends. Therefore, don't count me with them. I am a serious artist. No sirs, No, Global Tour.

Health and freedom!]

s_