TITLE: what will the end of the world look like, 45, 5×5
22 x 22 x 3″
I said money, money changes everything. – Cyndi Lauper
In this thought-provoking artwork I’ve titled “what will the end of the world look like, 45, 5×5” I delve into the complex relationship between financial gain and the impending threats of climate change. The title itself raises a poignant question, prompting viewers to reflect on the consequences of prioritizing wealth over environmental well-being.
The central theme revolves around the pervasive influence of greed, symbolized by the intricate weave of various colored bands representing different forms of currency. Gold, silver, bronze, and oil intertwine with a striking green thread, reminiscent of American paper money. This vivid visual metaphor captures the entanglement of economic interests with environmental concerns.
The backdrop of coin-shaped glue and paint mixtures adds a layer of depth, creating a nuanced play on words. The intentional reference to “change” signifies the struggle between financial interests and the necessary transformations required to combat climate change. The weave of money becomes a tangible barrier, holding back the much-needed change.
I can’t overlook the clever use of glow-in-the-dark elements, particularly the intentional green glow. This luminescence serves as a subtle yet powerful reminder of the overarching influence of money, even in the darkest times. The artwork encourages viewers to question the priorities that contribute to the impending environmental crisis.
Delving into my process behind the creation, my choice of 45 layers for the threads adds a nuanced political commentary. The reference to the 45th president, Donald Trump, highlights the anti-climate change stance and legislation during his tenure. This layer adds a temporal dimension to the artwork, placing it within a specific socio-political context.
“what will the end of the world look like, 45, 5×5” is my thought-provoking commentary on the intersection of financial gain and climate change. The intricate details, symbolic elements, and intentional references combine to create a powerful piece that invites viewers to contemplate the consequences of prioritizing money over the health of our planet.
DAMON WIGGINS 