THE BIG-BOX
Techne Gallery Application
THE CONCEPT
The Big Box and it aims to explore the necessity of communication between differing communities through the lens of a fictional alien civilization. In this project, I will create a cube with the dimensions of 6ft x 6ft x 6ft, which will be symbolic of an alien civilization dropping an unidentified box from the sky, filled with resources to ensure equitable distribution. These boxes were dropped around the world in specific locations, with this particular box being dropped on East Downtown Houston to highlight what the community needs in terms of resources.
Inside the cube, I will attach shelves to each wall, which will hold flasks containing materials that could be used to rebuild a fallen society. In addition to the flasks, I will also include a community fridge inside the cube, as a way to demonstrate the importance of community-led efforts to help people in certain communities find the resources they need to survive. The significance of the fridge in this project is related to the absence of healthy food options in certain communities, and the ways in which this can impact the health and well-being of residents. The materials used to build the cubes and the community fridge will include sheet metal, paint, LED lighting, and wood for the shelves.
VALUE PROPOSITION
The value proposition of the 'The Big Box' project is that it seeks to explore the necessity of communication between different communities and address real needs in the community through the creation of a community fridge and the use of materials that could be used to rebuild a fallen society. The project also aims to explore the potential of metal as an artistic medium, the objects are an opportunity for me to further expand on my craft skills and execution as a maker. Also having the ability to learn real-world manufacturing skills that could make me competitive in the open market. I also believe the total project will highlight the creative possibilities offered at TXRX. When the residency is completed at TXRX I envision the project being able to be dissembled or moved to another location to be showcased beyond the length of this particular exhibition to attract more visibility and a communal makerspresence.
My previous experience working with urban communities in the food insecurity sector gives me a unique perspective of the challenges and opportunities that exist in these contexts. I believe that this project has the potential to make a meaningful impact on the Houston community and that the TXRX residency would be an invaluable experience for me as an artist.