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In my art practice, I combine diverse mediums such as clay, kinetic electronics, and computer interfaces to create physical and virtual installations. Contradicting social issues faced by North America’s consumerist culture inspire the content of my work. I have been particularly interested in presenting polar concepts to an audience in an interactive manner for contemplation of its properties and existence. My main focus has been investigating the dynamic relationship between Nature & Technology. I combine this relationship by creating Cyborgs; part creature, part machine.
My latest body of work is of an on-going series called Bleach. It incorporates furniture, paintings, rugs, kinetic objects, electronics, plastics, porcelain, fur, and found objects all in a whiter shade of pale. I infuse nature with technology in these home decors to create an aesthetically beautiful environment and I bleach the space of its entire colour so that it will coincide with Martha Stewart's decorating sensibilities.
The idea behind Bleach series originated from my desire to combine nature and technology within the home, however as the work progressed it started to become a question of identity. Many people admired the work and expressed an interest in possessing a similar style in their own home. I myself grew fond of the cleanliness and purity of the space even though it would be impossible to maintain. I started to question as to why it was considered it so desirable by others and myself included.
Our home décor is merely an extension of our personalities, yet there is a peer pressure to decorate in order to keep up with appearances. The surge of the home improvement phenomenon through popular media outlets implies elevated social standing and a conformation to a White Anglo-Saxon Protestant class structure. Decorating gurus instruct us to use the swatch color Decorator’s White from Benjamin Moore paints so as to ensure the achievement of this idealized lifestyle. As the editor of Canadian House and Home says about white in the summer 2003 called the White Issue, “I don’t think there’s a faster way to achieve elegance in a room.” We are also instructed to limit the use of color and objects that may be considered too exotic; white, neutral and beige become the staple. If the space is an extension of our identity then what do we become by toning down and homogenizing our living space? What does this mean for people who don’t fit within the W.A.S.P. structure? These question fuel the intent of my work and I would continue to explore this process with my White Indian Princess.
KC Adams - 2003
art@kcadams.net