Four Course Meal

Artist Statement

I played with many toys throughout my childhood. As I grew older, it became apparent to me that toys had a more sinister role than merely being children’s playthings. Looking at toys from a capitalistic view reveals their primary role as money-making devices. Many modern toys are created to mimic popular media, often they are physical copies of characters from television. Every toy has a unique role in its own story, and I think that it is both tragic and ironic that so many intricate things that are meant to capture attention are forgotten.

My sculptures rest in ceramic platters reminiscent of those used to bake casseroles. The casserole dish is a baking item that may be considered antiquated in many kitchens today, or if one is present it is not used until a family gathering warrants a traditional meal.

These pieces are meant to display the exaggerated effects of modern consumerism. Uniting the toys from my childhood with traditional serving dishes, I created the ambiance of a dinner setting while juxtaposing traditional craft with mechanized mass production.