ARMED

This pre-COVID participatory installation explores connection and the space between people via fun fur arms. It is a social experiment. A pop graphic advertising-style fluorescent red flash with the words “TRY ME!” is the only written guidance. A fluorescent orange circle defines the space below the boundary form. The industrial materials in camouflage and orange contrast and complement the domestic material of fun fur which is generally found in squishy plush animals or as a hint of luxury trim in ready-to-wear women’s fashion.
 

Armed was conceived as an experiential object exploring personal space and connection; a playful, humourous social experiment; a hugging machine. It plays with defining space coming from the consideration of public/private space. I was interested in how people interact with the work. Would anyone interact with the piece, duck under and into the inner space, or use the furry arms to hug someone? Would the intended recipient accept or welcome the contact or recoil and retreat to the other side? Who would participate in this? Why or why not?
 

Armed assumed goodwill. It expected people to behave, and to use the arms for good (reaching out and hugging with consent) vs evil (unwanted contact, force, assault). 

 

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Printed tarp, 
vinyl, metal, fun fur

approx. xxxxxxxxx inches

Year: 2019

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