Installed in one of the highest points of Instituto Inhotim, Beehive Bunker (2006) simulates a warlike protection structure, sort of a surveillance post that can be occupied by one single person. The use of this kind of solitary fortification, a military structure made popular during World War II (1939-1945), reflects Chris Burden’s concern with political issues and themes related to social organization and stratification. Built without the assistance of machines, the sculpture gathers 332 fast-setting concrete bags alternately arranged in layers.

The piling up of bags is only the first part of the process of building this work, which accomplishes itself with the action of time, dissolving the packages and making the structure solid.