Living Standards explores the allure of the American middle class lifestyle through objects of use and ornamentation that surround the home; such as the basketball hoop above a garage door, a green garden hose wrapped up around its’ hanger, and the lamp standing on the lawn near the end of the driveway. All of these objects are part of the home, though they exist outside of it and even when not in use they function as symbols and public displays of class. As symbols they are powerful, these are objects that are necessary for maintaining the home and thus maintaining security and stability. There is more though, by surrounding the home these objects assist, along with the yard itself, in creating a transitional space where family can interact with nature safely and look out at the greater world (and be looked at). For the project Living Standards I will replicate these domestic objects to scale only using different materials and in a way that makes them unusable. In doing so my intent is that its very uselessness calls attention to the power of the symbol and the aura of these objects and, in effect, makes art.

To replicate these domestic objects I will first create two-dimensional digital images of each, the outlines of which will provide the path necessary for extrusion as part of creating a three-dimensional virtual model. This model will be output as a mold, then cast in stainless steel, and the original image will be printed on the face of the sculpture. The final sculpture will take the form of a limited edition multiple meant for display outdoors (much like the original object). Ultimately I hope to look beyond an art gallery for exhibiting the work and see these sculptures displayed on the exterior of middle-class homes across the country.

As artwork I hope Living Standards raises questions about the power of domestic objects as symbols and how consumer culture and class are an intrinsic part of what we think of as the American dream. On another level this project is an opportunity, and a challenge, for me to incorporate technology in new ways in my studio practice.