The focus on the poster design
The Mercè poster has generated endless criticism for its design, thus overshadowing other relevant political issues. It is immediately necessary to address the aspect of design, since it plays a fundamental role. In a Barcelona where the vote is fragmented, it is common for many mayors to be the object of disapproval by large sectors of the population, ready to bring out their criticisms at any opportunity. The reality is that Ada Colau’s poster went almost unnoticed, while Jaume Collboni’s first poster has provoked countless comments. This indicates that the designers are fully aware of when they must capture our attention.
The perception of the artist in the poster
One of the most immediate reactions to the current lineup revolves around the aura of pomposity that surrounds internationally renowned creators. This has led to reflection on the independent illustrators who have worked hard, seeking to contribute to the celebration of La Mercè, instead of this festival serving as a platform for their own promotion.
Break with conventions
The act of challenging norms is not something new; in fact, it can sometimes be admirable. Criticizing a poster for its negative sensations, especially when we expected a festive atmosphere, is comparable to reproaching works of abstract art for not corresponding to our expectations of beauty and representation. On many occasions, when someone changes conventions, it is very easy to give them recognition and support. The media is full of examples in which the traditional informative function is broken in the name of a poetic effect, often dark and contradictory.
Blurred lines between art and message
There are multiple signs, public sculptures and architectural designs that do not seek to please us or facilitate our understanding; instead, its intriguing essence is precise and appealing. However, when conventions are challenged, that is when we most ask that it be done elegantly and that there be some ‘justification’ behind it. And this is where we enter the political arena.
A revealing short film
The short film produced for Mercè 2024 by the production company Canadà represents clear propaganda for a particular approach to institutional care. For those who have not seen it: the video tells the story of a mother who, overwhelmed by the crying of her son, feels helpless until the Mercè festivities arrive and the child is amazed, her crying stops. . The message is direct: where you cannot reach yourself, you can count on the support of the city.
The representation of the city
The video paints the image of a city as a service provided by the City Council, where festivities or collective joy are not observed, and neighborhood interaction seems more of an obstacle than a support. The positive outcome arises when giants and psychedelic lights burst through the window, as if they were a direct connection with the son. This is not the experiential Mercè that is built from the bottom up, but rather the one that those in power, with benevolence, allow us to enjoy. The idea recalls previous developments, such as the Sant Joan celebrations, where the State emphasizes its increasing intervention for our own good.
Expectations and realities of care
The notion of attention seems attractive, but it can also become annoying and intrusive. It is true that many single mothers in Barcelona value public services and will be really pleased that the city will temporarily become a baby-friendly space, however, the poster also evokes the deceptive side of this depersonalization of institutional care. We want to be cared for, but at the same time we long for the strength and autonomy that self-organized efforts can offer.
The social struggle behind the festivities
In the endless debate about whether we would prefer higher wages or more public services, the holidays remind us that neither have ever been gifts of maternal power, but rather the result of collective struggles carried out by the people.
Reflections on this year’s poster
The Mercè 2024 poster provokes an unusual and somber feeling that certainly attracts attention. Understanding it is not easy and can be uncomfortable. However, as we reflect on it, we discover that there are deeper layers that touch on issues that concern us even more. It is difficult to trust politicians who have ranted about care in recent years, as rental prices rise and the city has turned to heightened tourism. The promise of receiving attention from the City Council weighs on some Barcelonans who trust less and less in waiting passively, becoming more and more prone to action. Have you noticed that everything happens at home and not a single image of the public space appears in the video?