Weight of the World, 2023
Toni-Maree Savage
Weight of the World, 2023
Repurposed steel, aluminium, brass, eco paint
45 x 60 x 60 cm
Artist Statement
History preserves the memories of the past, such as how we lived and engaged with each other and nature. When future generations look back on the present, they will see a society dominated by corporate greed, environmental destruction, pervasive narcissism, poverty, homelessness, poor mental health, and a plethora of other environmental, ethical, and social issues. Gladly, many social movements are working to make a change, but in order to keep moving forwards, we must remember to look back. With this in mind, Weight of the World, 2023, is not only a record of current issues but also a provocative call to future generations to avoid repeating previous errors. My work’s narrative is expanded through the use of dramatic photography. My model appears disheveled and uninterested to underline the statement's gloomy undertones. The disappearance of their bleached lips is meant to symbolise the significance that inaction and silence play in maintaining the world's existing issues.
Responsibility Statement
Weight of the World, 2023, makes use of long-lasting repurposed materials to make a statement about contemporary issues without adding to them, and to last for future generations to reflect on. I'd like to think that when the work's message becomes irrelevant, it will be disassembled and its parts repurposed. The whole thing is put together by hand. Bolts repurposed from electronic waste, aluminium from a decommissioned outdoor heater, and steel from a local hot water installation company all found their way into the final work. The brass panels on the headband were etched in an environmentally friendly manner using a combination of salt, water, and low-voltage power from a recycled mobile phone charger. The piece was coated with water-based, low-Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paint to reduce environmental impact. This project, like all my other work, is based on environmentally friendly and socially conscious principles that are central to my studio practice and personal ethos.
🔴 This artwork is currently not for sale.