Made in Luxembourg (store)
Various Artists.MABOMA, Made in Luxembourg, 2020-21
Made in Luxembourg is an online shop that can be seen as a continuous art installation. The piece examines the influence of globalisation, more specifically the outsourcing of garment production to low-wage countries and the relationship with consumerism in the clothing industry. This may just as well be a metaphor for the artist as a low cost worker in another multi-billion dollar industry.
FABRICATION
A series of garments, made in low wage countries (Bangladesh, India, Turkey, Vietnam...) and sold in fashion retail stores (Benneton, H&M, Primark, Zara...) are purchased by Various Artists. They are undone/unstitched and then sewn together again by hand. Various Artists traces the steps of the underpaid anonymous workers from a low cost country while being paid at the same rate as the original textile worker.
“All our products are made by independent suppliers, often in developing countries where our presence can make a real difference. Our business helps to create jobs and independence, particularly for women — consequently lifting people out of poverty and contributing to economic growth. We only work with partners who share our respect for people and the environment, and who are willing to work with us to improve their practices. All suppliers and factories must sign our strict Sustainability Commitment, which includes requirements for fair wages and good working conditions for all. We employ dedicated sustainability staff in our worldwide production offices to make sure the commitment is followed.” (webshop H&M)
“Primark does not own any factories and is selective about the suppliers with whom we work. Every factory which manufactures product for Primark has to commit to meeting internationally recognised standards, before the first order is placed and throughout the time they work with us.” (webshop Primark)
SALE
The Online Store sells the pieces at retail price. The value is set by the purchase price added with the performed artist labour at minimum low cost country wage. The sale also comes with a contract that requires the buyer to donate the missing cost to a charity in the region of origin where the garment is assembled. The missing cost (to be donated) equals the unpaid wage (minus purchase and fabrication cost) of the artists at an average wage if executed in Luxembourg.
DONATE
List of Charities:
Bangladesh Center for Workers’ Solidarity
Various executive producers
An executive producer realises a work by Various Artists. The producer retains the copy after being numbered and signed by Various Artists. If you’re interested to produce a Made in Luxembourg piece at the same rate as the original textile worker (x/f/m), Please fill in the form. Instructions will follow.