Empty Sign Sculpture (working title), 2010 design and construction

SQUARE - WALL MOUNTED - wood, fluorescent lights

These three pieces are variations on the same idea. Playing off of the structures that carry messages in public spaces, these pieces omit the translucent plastic panels that are normally inserted into this type of backlit sign. The beauty of the form and finish of the piece becomes the draw, rather than the words, graphics or logo that would normally be found within the shape of the sign.

The fluorescent lights allude to the work of Dan Flavin and fill the exhibition space with a cool glow. Without its panels, the sign structure becomes transparent and thus, a hollow or empty vessel.

Practically, these pieces disarm the messengers by emphasizing and exposing the structures that relay the messages themselves. The structures become the art and their light affects the exhibition space, much as it does in public spaces where these types of signs are found.

ROUND - FREE STANDING - wood, fluorescent lights

OVAL - WALL MOUNTED - wood, fluorescent lights