a container for the "arrow in the butt" gag and others. it is made of ceramic and contains a 3" moniter that plays 3 very short videos in a loop. By isolating and grouping these common visual comedy gags, I hope to unlock some of the meanings of the imagery that we cling to and fight to defend. It is not mocking or offensive, according to some folks (who have representation in various local, state and federal government branches enough to have their views represented in policy.) "...school mascots "acknowledge admirable characteristics of American Indians and ... reflect a positive outlook and recognition upon the contributions and the heritage of American Indians in Tennessee.""
Of course, it is no different than blackface and minstrel acts. And the reality on the ground is not reflecting any sort of recognition of any sort of contributions of any people, not even the ones that owned the land we exist on in the US. Karl May was an interesting figure who wrote about imaginary indians. La India Maria is a character in Mexican popular film who is an imaginary indian (who meets "real" indians with feathers in one of her films.) here they describe her :
"La India Maria, also known as Maria Elena Velasco, co-wrote, directed and starred in this comedy/drama. She has specialized in roles where poor and ignorant "Indios", (Mexicans who are very poorly acculturated to the dominant Spanish culture)" It is hard to find information about her, but I know the films, and there are many of them, are beloved. Not unlike 3 Stooges. They are funny and they deconstruct themselves, right before your eyes.
The plot thickens. I am rereading Manifest Manners and trying to trace it, visually, as I go. It is what this dude on the left is doing:
Looking for signs. I sold this piece in the State of the Union exhibition at the Gallery Project on 4th ave, so go see it in person if you get a sec.