2nd Wind Artist Statement

2nd Wind is an installation that explores concepts of rebirth, new life and a revival of antiquated products. Consumerism is at an all-time high throughout the world. The desire for new and improved products has left many objects deemed obsolete. New products provide solutions to problems that people didn’t even know they had. A lot of objects have been left without a use or a purpose. The goal of 2nd Wind is to provide these products a new life.

Two integral components of my project are the film Jerry Maguire and the Golden Pothos plants. The film and the plants both have a metaphorical meaning that I relate to on a personal level. The film is loosely based on sports agent Leigh Steinberg’s tumultuous career and how after several setbacks he managed to redeem his legacy. I have overcome several complications on my personal journey, so it wasn’t difficult to relate and empathize with the story. The Golden Pothos plants have learned to adapt, grow and survive in unfavorable conditions. The plants resolve to keep growing amidst the odds is an aide-mémoire to keep growing as a person.

America has been wrapped up in its capitalistic ways promoting the thought that the newest must be the best. Companies mass produce products they know will become obsolete to keep up with the competition and to continue the cycle of consumerism. Objects deemed obsolete are tossed in the debris and forgotten. My installation is constructed from those found materials. By giving purpose to an object that is assumed to be useless, I’m fulfilling my role as an artist.