As an example, In “Inter-IDEA Systems” William R Howe and L.A. Howe have created a series of counterfeit storage system assembly manuals. These manuals tightly conform to the IKEA template and seem like ready-mades at first glance. Upon closer inspection the viewer realizes that the systems to be assembled are stackable prisons, an all-in-one brothel stand, a highly profitable healthcare system, and a fully customizable relationship. By taking mass-produced, customizable storage systems and ascribing them to human institutions the Howes have interjected humor into poignant observation: institutions have the ability to dehumanize by treating people as commodities.
The observation is most blatant and not as nuanced in EFFECTIV (the stackable prison storage solution) and IVAR (the profit maximizing healthcare solution). In STOLMEN (the all-in-one brothel system) and BILLY ( the fully customizable relationship) the message is stronger by being more nuanced and personal.
In a diverse and thought-provoking show other IDEA artists explore themes from compulsive shopping to the store-bought aesthetic.
- David Jarred
IDEA, Curated by Julia Ranz, at Semantics, 1107 Harrison Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45214. Through Sept. 26. Saturdays or by appointment 513-207-5262.
Photo: William R. Howe and L.A. Howe, 'Billy' InterIDEA Systems, 2009. Print.
[Editor's note: I met David Jarred while reviewing his show (see two posts earlier than this one) and invited him to write for AEQAI ]
