Impression, proche orient 1 | Jordan
video still image
welded k
K is for Kompressor
2011
video and sculpture
K for Kompressor (KfK) is a filmed Hollywood-style sign featuring the letter 'k' of the Mercedes-Benz ‘kompressor’ logo. In this piece Tom Bogaert further explores intersections between enlightened absolutism and badges used by Mercedes-Benz for their supercharged engines.
Bogaert coined the neologism ‘kompressor’ in the context of his pre-revolution research on forms of government in the Arab world. Until recently the term ‘kompressor’ referred mainly to Mercedes-Benz’s turbocharged engines and the hugely popular – albeit overused - badges that identify them. The new meaning Tom Bogaert gave ‘kompressor’ is the product of the following formula: compassionate + oppressor = kompressor. It reflects the ‘Everything for the people, nothing by the people’ spirit of self-declared enlightened absolutism and it can still be applied to the majority of rulers in the region.
In effect, it seems that compassionate Presidents, Sheiks, Kings and Chairmen rule with the intent of improving the lives and happiness of their subjects primarily in order to strengthen their own authority.
Kompressors also share their subjects’ obsession with German cars, and Mercedes Benz in particular. A cult of personality often arises and kompressors tend to use mass media and propaganda to create an idealized and heroic public image. Compassionate oppressors see themselves as heroes of the nation without whom the transformation to a better future can’t occur.