These sculptures were part of the open air exhibition "Art Zuid 2013" last summer in the south part of Amsterdam and are made by British sculptor Laura Ford (1961).
She has called them Rag and Bone with Bin and Bags. Laura works as a fairy tale story teller from a a social and political engagement. A real racoon searching in a bin for some food is fun but when blowing him up and dress him in clothes he becomes a homeless human. The "baglady" everybody will regognize as seen in many big cities. The fairy tale suddenly becomes bitter and cynical.
Remarkable social statements.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThe first photo is very sad. When we go to the city, I do see people pushing their carts, piled with bags - their house n home on wheels. I sometimes wonder where they go in winter, for surely they must gather or live somewhere?
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThese are wonderful; so well done. Although some may think it is sad, many of the people we see living like that are quite content in their own world as it is. Hard for the rest of us to believe.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenThey are very unique and clever.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenChoosing the raccoon is clever as they are scavengers like the bag ladies.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI prefer the second one.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenGreetings,
Filip
The first reminds me that I have a lot to be thankful for.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenDearest Marianne,
BeantwoordenVerwijderenBut this artist does have a knack for visualizing society's problems very well! The real raccoon is so true but are they really living in The Netherlands? Here they are all over the place and quite common. Called the bandit...
Hugs and happy Sunday!
Mariettte
I am not familiar with this sculptor's work so I will have to do some research. The name 'rag and bone' is a familiar term to me. When I was young there used to be men with a horseand cart that travelled slowly through the streets of Manchester asking for any old rags or bones. You would give them any unwanted clothing and in return be given a 'rubbing stone'. This stone was used to clean the step leading into your house.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenI love these whimsical sculptures Marianne!
BeantwoordenVerwijderen