You, me, and them, explores the correlation of ideologies and expectations that existed between the soldiers of the British Indian Army, the civilians, and the British Empire during the two World Wars. The photograph draws reference to the act of washing another’s feet, which is representative of a cross-cultural act demonstrating humility, respect, and service. In contrast to the act of chivalry, the soldier and the state also represent forces of brutality and authority. The correlation between civilian, soldier and state bring to the forefront the expectations and understandings that may or may not exist between them. These inter-relationships are often not clearly defined and marred by underlying agendas and motivations.

The photograph was inspired by the artist’s previous interactive performance, “What have I done to you?”, 2011, and alludes to a broader political strategy of how the British mobilized their colonial troops through patriotism during the World Wars. You, me, and them, was developed from Baptist Coelho’s Artist-in-Residence, supported by and at the Delfina Foundation, London, 2011-12. The residency was also supported by Creative India Foundation, Hyderabad; Pump House Gallery, London. In 2019, the photograph was first exhibited as part of the artist’s solo exhibition, Body-Automaton atJSLH Art Gallery, O.P. Jindal Global University, Sonipat. The exhibition was curated by Premjish Achari.