Salvatore Vitale
Death by GPS
Winner
Salvatore Vitale (1986)
50% teacher, 50% independent
MFA ZHdK, 2018
Death by GPS
2022–2023
Gauteng (SA)
Produced for MAST Photo Grant for Industry and Work, MAST Foundation, Bologna (IT)
Collaborations for this project are multiple and mostly with freelancers hired for the concept of the work. Here is a list of the freelancers hired via Upwork: Alexious Kadzimba, Cynthia Anyawu, Inge Laubscher, Susan Gitari, Pamela Kananu, Nkosi McHunu, Puseletso Tsotetsi, Tatenda Nhesvure, Charles Chombo, Chrisant Kitaka, Margeret Hartzer, Trailer Young, Denzel Nyathi, Katlego Moagi, Zico Simtoti, Bianca Buisman, Tyler Sanderson
Multi-channel video installation, photographic prints, shielding bags
Photographic prints: 80 × 60 cm, framed; Video: three-channel video on LCD screens 24”, synchronized, 4K, colour, no audio; Structure: Dexion slotted angle, 90°, 3,048 × 500 × 1,219 mm; Shielding bags: 20 × 30 cm
Video 1: .mp4, 9:16 (vertical), three screens, synchro, 3 min 50 sec.;
Video 2: .mp4, 16:9, single-channel, 31 min 16 sec.
Structure supplied by Dexion
Death by GPS explores how automation biases shape relationships between individuals, labour and social structures, generating new forms of exploitation. The work draws parallels with historical struggles of the working class against machines. The first part of the project focuses on Gauteng, South Africa, connecting the gig economy, the mining industry and technological sabotage. The work takes the form of a transmedia narrative, incorporating documentary, fiction and generative narratives. It becomes a collective effort, as it includes the creation of content by different freelancers hired using online gig platforms. Finally, Death by GPS is a mixtape that includes a video collage, essay film, photographs and music video, interpolated with internet virality and acts of sabotage to create a thought-provoking representation of the impact of automation on the gig economy and labour exploitation.
