In this exhibition, Shani examines the cultural reality in Israel, focusing on the ways it is shaped by social and political pressures. The objects on view invite discussion and critique of the local militaristic ethos. Shani employs sharp humor, sarcasm, and visual design that combines ready-mades with toys enlarged to ten times their original size.

 

The exhibition includes inflatable tanks alongside “the pit” (evoking associations with Hamas tunnels); various toy weapons, deflated and emptied of air, arranged to resemble a spread of military equipment; and pool floats designed as tires burning with rubber flames, compressed within a frame and drained of air.

 

In addition, objects such as a champagne bottle, a cigar, and forged passports are displayed, referencing current political scandals with pointed cynicism. Symbols of masculinity also appear, including oversized cigarettes accompanied by a range of mustaches grown by reservists at the beginning of the war—a humorous trend meant to signal strength and bravery.