Viewpoints

I wanted to take a moment to elaborate on my piece entitled Larry's girl.  While it was created as a memorial piece for a friend, the message in the piece is also important.  This piece was created as a remonstration on the persecution of individuals who choose a path that differs from the society in which they live.  This particular piece references religion.  The veiled image is self explanatory and was chosen as a religious representation.  Closer inspection will reveal images chosen to rebuke individuals and government who attempt to snatch religious freedom from the individual.  In naming this for my friend, I am also making a statement regarding the way Larry, who was an unconventional individual was, therefore, unfairly judged, and often felt ostracized by society.  Many of my pieces represent my respect for the individual who stays his course regardless of public criticism.

This piece follows along the same line.  I believe nearly every individual has experienced some form of oppression.  We also, unfortunately, are capable of assuming the role of oppressor.  It is my hope that the viewer will relate to the duality of the human experience.

This piece speaks for itself.  The pavers were created from vintage food advertisements.  Click on the images for a closer view.

Oppression

It is often easier to become outraged by injustice half a world away than by oppression and discrimination half a block from home.
Carl T. Rowan

I realize that this piece is a far cry from my recent work but the turmoil that is occurring in the world cannot go unnoticed.  I created this piece because I believe that nearly everyone experiences oppression in some form in their lifetime, be it physical or psychological.  Turning a blind eye only serves to promote further oppression and makes us co-conspiritors.  So this piece speaks loudly and, I'll admit is even a bit frightening, but if it pushes one person to stand up for another, then it has served its purpose.


Now I say that with cruelty and oppression it is everybody's business to interfere when they see it.
Anna Sewell