Original Artist’s Statement, October 2000.
Convention—1a: agreement, contract; d: a general agreement about basic principles or procedures; 3a: usage or custom especially in social matters; b: a rule of conduct or behavior; d: an established technique, practice or device (as in literature or theater).
All at once I am an artist and a political scientist. Inherent in these endeavors is a dichotomy: one of many that seem to define me. Art is who I am, while political science gives me a vocabulary to articulate the art in me. If this show is to legitimize that I’ve learned something in my journey through undergraduate studies, then let it stand as a testament to this vernacular. Through this articulation, I attempt to communicate the concepts that make up life in America for a 21-year-old guy. Not that I’m the average person, nor that I’m special on the other end. It is simple a discussion, throwing ideas back and forth, telling stories and asking questions.
Each piece presented here is a story, a question or a statement about me—not so much as an autobiographical pursuit—rather, they are questions I raise from my point of view. I stand here at this place in time and tell you, this is how I see life. Then I ask, “Does anyone see it the same way? Or at least understand where I’m coming from?” I do not assume you will understand, nor do I assume to be anywhere near profound in my observations. Instead, I take my skills and ability, hang them by a karabiner and a cable, then let you interact with the product for a while.
Take what you can. Leave what you will. Always question assumptions.