Still - An Invitation - 2024
A collaboration with McAlister Zeller-Newman
Sculpture (interactive)
9 custom made pop up books, 2 wooden book sleeves
Dimensions: each book 17” x 11” with various thicknesses
wooden sleeve A 20.25” x 16” x 13.25”
wooden sleeve B 20.25” x 20.5” x 13.25”
Collection: artist (add to cART)
After some nine years working with the figures from the Wilderness Adventure Ride at Ontario place, we felt it was time to pass on their custodianship to others. The nine volumes are an invitation to take the figure and create new works, to develop and extend their narrative. The first box set of five volumes documents our time and work with the figures. The second box set of four extends an invitation to: an open-ended invitation to the public and 3 volumes which are directed to specific individuals who we believe would take on this custodianship and create new works involving the figures.
By Chance (Book A) - In 2016, we were invited to visit and conceive an installation for the In/Future exhibition on the West Island of Ontario Place. We found an artificial mountain housing a group of abandoned animatronic figures who had once illustrated life in Northern Ontario.
The Realization (Book B) - The narrative of the In/Future installation found the group of figures realizing the park has closed and they are on their own. Taking matters into their own hands they set out to repair themselves and adapt to the modern world.
The Odyssey (Book C) - Taking on new identities and completing their restoration they decide to leave the park on an odyssey through the city of Toronto in search of a new home.
Our Finale (Book D) - Showcases our last show with the figures, We, that is the figures and ourselves have decided to part ways. A celebration ensures.
Your Choice (Book E) - Finds the figures in the studio packing up an their wares and preparing to move on. A figure offers the viewer an invitation.
A Maelstrom, A Bottomless well, An Engine and The Unexpected - The four remaining books are locked away in their own case. The viewer should they wish to continue is given the means to unlock one of these volumes. What opportunities will they be presented with? Will they take on the custodianship and the responsibility of directing and expanding the characters and their narrative?
