3 Flags for 1 Space and 6 Regions by Vito Acconci

3 Flags for 1 Space and 6 Regions states in bold colors the similarities among the USA, China, and the USSR, suggesting a synonymy between them and their decades-long conflict, the impact of which is still felt to this day. This is a common theme found in Acconci’s works, including Instant House and Way Station I (Study Chamber). Artists like Acconci who came of age during the 1960s and 70s, including Chris Burden, Martha Rosler and Leon Golub, took great inspiration from anti-war sentiments and heavily criticized the American government’s actions. 

In the past, Acconci’s art has fallen victim to vandalism and censorship. For example, when his 1983 steel sculpture Way Station I (Study Chamber) at Middlebury College was installed, it faced criticisms due to its appearance and content, as well as many instances of vandalism until eventually it was burned with a blow torch. (It was restored in 2003.) The painted flags of the United States, the Soviet Union, China, Cuba, and Palestine that were part of Way Station I convey a similar meaning to that of T3 Flags for 1 Space and 6 Regions.