Artist Statement:
Stalk is part of a larger series of sculptures exploring the interaction between the industrialization, mechanization, and increased chemicalization of our natural environment. This work explores the toxicity of pesticides, chemicals, and the general industrialization of our natural environment. I explore this industrialization and the harmful impact it has had on our crops and generations of people who have been in proximity to those fields and chemicals.
This sculpture, as a one-off in the series, also explores the impact Covid-19 has had on our society, in particular those affected in the food and restaurant business. Those people, their hardships and ultimate resilience are represented by the disposable aluminum sheet pan covered ears of corn. As you explore this sculpture, try and make archeological discoveries of the industrial artifacts, the natural and unnatural textures, and hidden details that genetically altered this corn stalk forever.