Gallery 1988 is currently featuring their third comedy-based art show, "Is This Thing On #2 Too." This year's event features a Saturday Night Live theme (which was kept secret until opening night.)
My piece retells a moment from my childhood living room. That's me behind the couch where my dad relaxes amid the deepest hours of the weekend. Naturally, SNL's content compounded with its you-better-be-in-bed time slot
made it unequivocally forbidden, which necessitated tactics like the one seen
above.
This moment marked my introduction to the world of late night sketch comedy, and Mr. Bill was my unfortunate, clay usher. Just the sight of the cartoon-ish character was enough to demand my attention, but the brutal nature of his segments intrigued me. Though I was well versed in comic violence, Mr. Bill's existence seemed hellish compared to say, Tom and Jerry's because he was utterly defenseless in the face of his tormentor, Sluggo. But most disturbing was the giant godlike hands which offered no protection, rather they sided with his enemy to further torture him.
My art is typically a pop-cultural tribute, and meant to get a
smile (this piece included), but covering something with personal meaning
this time felt surprisingly good. It's especially dear to me because my
son modeled as young me, so in an odd way I get to see him with his
grandpa, whom he never got to meet.
All of the show's artwork is available for viewing and purchasing
here (although, my piece has already sold, woo hoo!)
