Date of Award

Spring 5-2020

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.F.A.

Degree Program

Fine Arts

Department

Fine Arts

Major Professor

Cheryl Hayes

Second Advisor

Dan Rule

Third Advisor

Anna Mecugni

Abstract

My work revolves around using a specialized blend of art, design, and craft to interpret political narratives through fabricated products. These objects weave contemporary commentary and consumer indulgences into sculptural cultures. Each product is designed to mimic its own marketed culture—offering an enticingly tactile, interactive experience that is equal parts confusing, concerning, and delightful. The products are accompanied by investment opportunities in the form of popular, limited released merchandized objects, such as hats and patches. Using humor and subtlety, my gamelike installations explore arenas such as agency, autonomy, intimacy, and dueling realities in a time of ecological collapse and cultural reification. I also examine these themes in the construction of my ‘sock puppet’ tapestries. Present in my work are my own frustrations about the past, doubts on the present, and concerns for the future; however, I also strongly believe in a better world.

Rights

The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.

Share

COinS