I am interested in depicting the circular nature of time and showing the decaying building of Askew after humanity, with nature taking back over, but also referencing how the land is returning to its original state. I chose Askew over other buildings because it is the building in which I spend the most time, and so it has a personal aspect. In order to execute my idea I will need to research the native flora and fauna of the region as well as changes in ecology and geology that have and possibly will occur as time has passed. I will also need to research the history and construction of Askew specifically, as well as find school or other documents that state what was in Askew’s place before its construction. This topic brings to mind many questions. What did the land that Askew is on look like before it was touched by humans? Was Askew the first building or human influence on its site? For what other purposes had the land around Askew been used for before Askew was built? How has the native ecology changed since Askew’s construction? What changes to the environment around Askew could occur in the future? Is there any way to predict or guess at which parts of Askew are the most unstable and will decay first?
Joe, Petah Coyne is an artist who uses chandeliers as structures to explore deterioration. Look for her work here:
http://www.massmoca.org/event_details.php?id=546