Performing internationalism

The modern editions of the Olympic Games convey international values, with sports being considered a tool to negotiate geopolitical issues. Particularly, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies can be seen as solemn events with an important visual aspect. Based on a discursive perspective through the lens of Bendel Larcher, Kress and Heller, this paper analyzes the shapes and the colors of the sartorial items used by artists during the Opening and Closing Ceremonies from 2000 until 2020. It focuses on the artists invited to perform during the occasions, and on their role to communicate different messages concerning the international conjuncture.