Mariano Di Tella: Crafting Symbols of Change in Argentine Politics

Mariano ‘Tute’ Di Tella, a Buenos Aires mechanic, has gained attention for crafting symbolic chainsaws for political leaders like Javier Milei and Elon Musk. With his latest project aimed at creating a chainsaw for Donald Trump, Di Tella reflects on the broader implications of his work, balancing support for political change with concerns about economic repercussions for citizens. His story highlights the intersection of art, politics, and personal experiences in Argentina.

Mariano ‘Tute’ Di Tella, a skilled mechanic from Buenos Aires, has made a notable contribution to political symbolism by creating custom chainsaws for influential figures. Recently, he delivered an elaborate aluminium-and-bronze chainsaw to President Javier Milei, which the president gifted to Elon Musk during a political event. Musk referred to this chainsaw as ‘the chainsaw of all bureaucracy,’ linking it to efforts aimed at reducing governmental excess.

Di Tella takes immense pride in his chainsaws, viewing them as symbols of the transformative changes Milei represents. “The chainsaw is an instrument of power that I made so that he can make a change and not just an economic change,” Di Tella expressed, emphasizing the broader implications of his work beyond mere machinery. Now, he is preparing to craft a similar chainsaw for former President Donald Trump, hoping to carry the same message of change.

Despite his alignment with Milei’s radical proposals to revive Argentina’s economy, Di Tella does not identify with any political party. He appreciates the changes in his personal circumstances but credits his financial stability to securing a second job after experiencing a drop in income during the pandemic. He remarked, “I’m an artist, not a politician. I’m an ordinary citizen who became fed up, angry, and overwhelmed.”

The rising costs that accompany Milei’s policies have affected Di Tella personally, with his building maintenance fees significantly increasing following subsidy cuts. Emphasizing his commitment to art over financial gain, Di Tella stated he has not sought compensation for his custom chainsaws, with material costs averaging around $500. “Money doesn’t have any power over my art,” he stated, reinforcing the value he places on his creative expression.

While he supports Milei, Di Tella harbors concerns about the economic repercussions of aggressive policies, such as the elimination of over 40,000 state jobs, and hopes that his work does not lead to further hardship for others. He recalls his journey with chainsaws, noting their significance in his childhood and linking their powerful image to a non-violent demand for change. He articulated, “The chainsaw is a symbol of change. It’s not violent; it’s change. That’s why the chainsaw is well made — to show that you have to change, that something isn’t going right.”

The journey of Mariano ‘Tute’ Di Tella reflects a unique intersection of art, politics, and personal struggle, as he crafts chainsaws that embody the spirit of change in Argentine society. While he supports President Milei’s initiatives, he remains aware of the broader implications of such transformations, balancing his pride in his creations with a desire for thoughtful governance. Ultimately, Di Tella’s story emphasizes the power of symbols in political discourse and the complexity inherent in the pursuit of change.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar