"Manhattan Effigy (by zipcode) , 2012. used sponges, 18 x 4 1/2 x 3/4 inches. (signed on verso)
I recently completed some new small used sponge maps including this one of Manhattan. Each sponge section represents the different zipcodes of NYC. The use of dirty sponges is integral to the concept–Manhattan is one of the most culturally absorbent cultures in the world, and some areas are even quite stinky.
Update: This work is currently on view at Jim Kempner Fine Arts as of June 20, 2012.
"U.S.A. Used Sponge Assemblage Scale=1:10,400,000," 2012
Recently completed a new sponge map of the U.S.A. This latest “Used Sponge Assemblage” is Scaled 1:10,400,000 and measures approximately 17 1/2 x 11 1/2 x 1 1/2 inches and is signed on the verso. This work also includes AK and HI (not shown in picture).
Update: This sculpture is now on view at The Islip Art Museum during the exhibition Art From Dross, June 13-September 2.
Just finished “USA (Used Sponges Assemblage), Scale=1:6,240,000,” 2011.
Made from used sponges collected over ten years. Dim. var. approx. 27 x 18 x 1 1/2″.
This one includes Hawaii and Alaska (not in scale). Currently working on a World Sponge Map and a map of Japan.
Update: Now in a Private Collection. Here is a picture of the work on view at the Fountain Fair on March 10, 2010 by autovac: http://www.flickr.com/photos/autovac/6831832008/in/set-72157629573816639
U.S.A. (Used Sponges Assemblage)--Installation view
This is the most recent manifestation from the PACK-CAT Recycling Co. Projects recently on view at Jim Kempner Fine Arts (during Evidence 11/10-1/11) and Pure Light Gallery in Turner Falls, MA (Art From Detritus 5/10-7/10). I collect many of the by-products of processes of my everyday life, and reuse them by incorporating them into sculptures or works of art. My goal is make work that is friendly to the environment by finding creative uses and new lives for castaway material. Often my works also comments on consumerism and wasteful throw-away culture. I regularly use a number of unconventional materials in my sculptures, such as used teabags, dryer lint, eggshells, used tape, and old sponges. The “Used Sponges Assemblage” in the shape of the United States of America takes on new meaning with the occurrence of current environmental disasters like massive oil spills and flooding.
Update: Now in a Private Collection.