Of the four multimedia installations included in the ICA’s new exhibition, “Jason Rhoades, Four Roads,” the most striking is “Untitled (from My Madinah: In pursuit of my ermitage…).” The work consists of dozens of neon words hanging from the ceiling from orange extensions cords. Visitors are invited to remove their shoes and wander beneath the installation. “Untitled” is visually captivating, and it offers a uniquely intimate way to experience art in a museum setting.
But I felt very uneasy as I read the dangling words: “Breakfast of Champions.” “Beggar’s Purse.” “Fuck Hole.”