earthlings unite at metropolitan museum of design detroit
A Radical Action Based Artivisim Exhibition on Energy Conservation
Curated by MM-O-DD’s Founder and President Leslie Ann Pilling and College for Creative Studies Dean of Graduate Studies Dr. Ian Lambert, this exhibition utilizes Design and Art to pivot the conversation on energy conservation by presenting a knowledge inspired vehicle which allows individuals to have a discernible impact on our environment.
A documentary film grimly illustrates the extent of plastic pollution where The Great Pacific Garbage Patch isn’t the singular assemblage of consumer waste. In a classic example of the earth’s stunning ability to adapt, these floating islands of plastic detritus are fostering new species that have learned to not only subsist but reproduce.
Urban Jupena’s fiber installation commands an entire side of the gallery inviting the viewer into its plush landscape complete with a table and seating. Textures and materials vary creating seed pods, grasses and even a small plexiglass lake in a cool shag palette generating an immersive 70’s communal vibe.
This Babel iteration furnishes two routes to the apex of a tilted peak where the all-seeing eye intently watches. Laced with symbolism, the picture is cleanly executed with incredible attention to detail.
Newcomer Realm offers commentary through bold color and recycled multi-media inciting angst, concern and fear with a chaotic street flavor. The piece includes a corner installation stating ‘we live in a world ran on the exploitation that has been killing us & our planet for centuries’.
This was the only exhibition I was aware of that specifically acknowledged Earth Day with a presentation of art confronting our dire condition, obligation and responsibility for the threat to our collective home. It’s become undeniably clear all beings are connected as unscrupulous profiteering from natural resources for the comfort and benefit of humans has disrupted every ecosystem throwing the entire planet out of balance. Artists continue to express urgency in the endeavor to turn toward a more collaborative and kinder treatment of the planet.
BTW- I love the invented word ‘artivism’. Pretty much describes what art’s about in any era but taking a particularly in-your-face stance during the past decade or so.
On view through May 25th at MMoDD 905 Henry 3rd Floor Detroit
*images are mine
Thank you for reading. If you are able, please consider upgrading to a paid subscription for only $6/mo, $60/yr or go gonzo with a Founding Member subscription which gets you a shout out in the following review! All paid subscriptions gain you access to every audio and video interview posted since inception, puts gas in my car and buys the occasional lunch. Thank you!
SHOWS OPEN THIS WEEKEND
I admire the museum, which doesn't collect, for its engagement. Indeed, the museum has a commitment to create a happening, an experience for guests to engage and remember. For example, the refreshments came from Make Food Not Waste, an organization with chefs on staff. Most of the delicious food was rescued from the dumpster. Now that's an experience.