In the statement made by Hito Steyerl, he expresses his support for health and safety regulations but also highlights a perceived inconsistency in their application. He points out that while there are stringent rules for creating and publishing videos or artworks, which can sometimes become overly restrictive to the point of hindering artistic expression, these same strict regulations do not appear to be enforced as strictly when it comes to situations involving real people. This implies that Steyerl sees a disparity in how seriously such guidelines are taken depending on whether the issue involves media content or actual human interactions.
The deeper meaning behind this statement touches upon broader issues of governance and policy-making, questioning why certain rules might be excessively stringent in one context but lax in another. It raises questions about the motivations behind regulations and suggests that there may be underlying biases or inefficiencies in how such rules are enforced. The inconsistency Steyerl observes could also reflect a critique on the prioritization of different types of risks by regulatory bodies, highlighting the need for balanced oversight to ensure fairness and effectiveness.
Hito Steyerl is an acclaimed German filmmaker and writer known for her critical reflections on contemporary art and digital culture. Her work often focuses on exploring the impact of technology and media on society, particularly in relation to politics and social issues. She has gained recognition for her insightful commentary and multimedia projects that challenge conventional views on artistic expression and societal norms.