On July 19th, the city of Porto will witness the opening of the fascinating 'Labour Force' exhibition by Cristina Rodrigues, located in the emblematic Building of the Old National Lithography, now the headquarters of Ascendi. This installation, composed of 105 generously sized blue ants, is an ode to collective work and organization, reflecting the intrinsic values of Ascendi and the artist's deep connection with her hometown.
Cristina Rodrigues, a visual artist born in 1980 in Porto, has a career marked by a wide range of international exhibitions spanning Europe, Asia and South America. With a degree in Architecture from Universidade Lusíada and a PhD in Art and Design from Manchester School of Art, the artist is known for creating narratives that intertwine her personal story with universal symbolism. The installation 'Labour Force' is no exception, capturing the essence of teamwork and diligence through the metaphor of ants.
The ants, each measuring approximately 80 centimeters, are more than just sculptures. They represent the efficiency, organization and collaborative spirit that are the hallmarks of Ascendi. The company, with 25 years of experience in asset management and toll collection services and road infrastructure maintenance, is renowned for its innovation and operational efficiency. The choice of ants as the central theme of the installation reflects a deep dialogue between the artist and the company, symbolizing the values of hard work and driven organization that they both share.
The blue colour of the ants is not merely decorative. This detail, carefully chosen by Cristina Rodrigues, reflects Porto’s connection to the world, underlining the cosmopolitan identity of the city and Ascendi. The exhibition, set in the heart of the polis, invites viewers to reflect on the importance of working together and community spirit in social and cultural development.
The opening of the exhibition was attended by several local and international personalities, highlighting the importance of art as a means of uniting the community and promoting common values. During the event, Cristina Rodrigues explained the inspiration behind the installation, emphasizing the importance of ants as a symbol of work and resilience. "Ants are fascinating creatures. They personify organization, the ability to work together and perseverance. Through these sculptures, I wanted to convey the importance of working together for the common good," said the artist.
Ascendi, for its part, sees this partnership as a natural extension of its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The company has continually invested in improving the spaces where it operates, promoting an environment of continuous development for its employees and contributing to the creation of wealth. The 'Labour Force' installation is a testament to this commitment, celebrating the union between art, community and citizenship.
In addition to its visual and symbolic impact, 'Labour Force' offers an immersive experience for visitors. The blue ants, positioned in a path, lead viewers through a path that symbolizes continuous movement and progress. This visual and emotional journey is an invitation to reflect on the role of each individual in building a more cohesive and collaborative society.
The exhibition also highlights the importance of sustainability, a value dear to both the artist and Ascendi. Just as ants play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystems, turning and aerating the soil and contributing to natural composting, Ascendi seeks to ensure that its actions are beneficial to the environment and future generations. This shared vision reinforces the message of ‘Labour Force’: the need for a collective effort to achieve sustainable and balanced development.
'Labour Force' will be on display at the Old National Lithography Building, inviting Porto residents and visitors to the city to immerse themselves in this symbolic universe of Cristina Rodrigues. The exhibition promises to be a landmark in Porto's cultural scene, offering a profound reflection on the importance of collaborative work and sustainability in the contemporary world.
The exhibition is open to the public every day from 10am to 6pm until the end of September. Admission is free, allowing everyone the opportunity to appreciate and reflect on this unique work. Ascendi and Cristina Rodrigues invite everyone to visit ‘Labour Force’ and celebrate the union between art, community and citizenship.
