Artists tackle ten existential questions
Tracey Emin is representing Britain at the Venice Biennale, which opened on 10 June.
Does art make a difference?
The first time I went to the Tate Gallery I was 22. I stood in front of a Rothko painting and cried. I had no idea at the time who Rothko was, yet this painting had a profound effect on me and made a strong emotional difference.
Should politics and art mix?
Sometimes. There are artists in history who were happy to side with whoever was buying their work, and others who died for their political beliefs. It's a very individual thing.
Is your work for the many or for the few?
The many. It's very simple and very direct. I like the hierarchy of the pyramid: the bottom of the pyramid holds up the top, and neither is more important than the other.
If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
I'm not sure I have the right dress sense for a world leader. But my priority would be an HIV/Aids vaccine. In a very paranoid conspiracy theory, I can't help but think certain powers out there are quite happy with the Aids pandemic.
Who would be your top advisers?
My cat Docket. His advice would be: eat twice a day and take long sleeps. My mum has always thought Colonel Gaddafi was rather attractive.
What, if anything, would you censor?
Censorship works like a horrible spot: whatever you censor will one day explode and become a putrid, stinking, pernicious sore that eats its way across the skin.
If you had to banish one public figure, who would it be?
I have a feeling that Tony Blair will be soon sending himself into exile.
What are the rules that you live by?
Do unto others as you wish to be done unto yourself. I try not to lie. And I have never slept with anybody for money.
Do you love your country?
I do love Britain. I love my home and I love London. Sometimes things happen and I feel a little ashamed, but I am allowed to say that I strongly disagree with the decisions that Tony
Blair has made. I really value democracy.
Are we all doomed?
Yes. Since I was a little girl I have had recurring dreams of giant floods and tidal waves. I have visions of the Thames Barrier snapping. I think we are all going to drown.
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