CAPRAGENUS TERGUM

2009
polymer clay, glass, acrylic paint, douglas fur, cedar
18" x 6" x 10"

Unnatural Selection

Showing at Some Space Gallery
625 1st Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Opening April 2, 6p - 9p

www.somespacegallery.com

Unnatural Selection is inspired by recent literature on decreasing biodiversity and human involvement in the preservation of exotic species. Between habitat loss, introduction of invasive species, and climate change, many experts are suggesting more extreme ways of protecting the endangered.

The modern structure for protecting endangered animals is inherently synthetic. Many species are removed from their habitat, protected in simulated environments, and are reintroduced when mature. With Unnatural Selection I'm projecting a potential future for conservation. As more fragile animals are lost, it's suggested we turn to bio-engineering to create new more adaptable creatures for the modern world, or alter those that currently exist to function in a new way. For decades scientists have been bioengineering our crops and our livestock; they could eventually turn to bioengineering biodiversity.

In this sculpture series I am creating new exotic species for the future. The animals are displayed as specimens: stuffed, mounted, caged, jarred, and labeled. Each creature has its own story which includes habitat, nutrition, behavior, reproduction, and taxonomy. My goal is to fabricate a comprehensive reality for a visibly artificial creature. By using faux furs, clay, brightly dyed feathers, and hardwoods as surrogate animal parts, I call attention to the fabrication of these specimens.