Performance sculptor Nick Rodrigues (MCC Sculpture/Installation Fellow ’07) has been creating a series of “pop technology” inspired sculptures that critique everyday interactions. He calls it the Human Interaction Series or (HI). Nick says his goal is “to use art to archive and critique our current state of humanity. Well, if that’s the case, then there’s certainly no shortage of subject material for him to draw upon.
The (HI) series started in 2002 with a retractable cellular phone booth you wear on your back that pops up over your head. The image of the phone booth is now being used all over the world to remind people to turn their cell phones off. It has been spotted in multiple restaurants, lectures and even preceding church ceremonies.
Recently shown at the RHYS Gallery, (HI) now consists of 7 works. The Porta-Party (a life-size Ipod/porta-potti that you can dance in) was brought to Scope Miami Art Basel. And since Miami, Porta-Party has entered two major collections. One edition is on display in Los Angeles at Susan Hancocks private collection show space ROYAL/T. This exposure has also led to The New Childrens Museum in San Diego commissioning a Porta-Party. Let’s hope the kids understand it’s an art piece, not an actual potty. Ah Duchamp full circle.
In addition to having built three Porta-Parties since December 07, the RHYS gallery is showing the die-pod (an Ipod gravestone that contains all note worthy songs and photos of your life) at Art Basil Switzerland.
As Nick states, “all of this was jumpstarted by the MCC fellowship. It is so important that artists get that seed money needed to create the work that can lead to opportunities.” We couldn’t agree more and can’t wait to see what he creates next.
You can view the newest addition to the (Hi) series Business Card Shooter at the Boston Sculptors Gallery.
All images courtesy of Nick Rodrigues.
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