ArtPrize - Sep. 23 - Oct. 8, 2009 - Grand Rapids, MI
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Artist information:
Jackson Martin
Johnson City, TN

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Scale model for The Redemptive Quality of Life II
Scale model for The Redemptive Quality of Life II
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Jackson Martin

Artist bio

I was born on a commune in rural Tennessee in 1978. I received my BFA from Middle Tennessee State University in 2004 and earned my MFA from the Rinehart School of Sculpture at the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2007. I now live in Johnson City, TN with my wife and daughter and teach in the Department of Art & Design at East Tennessee State University.

At the core of my work is a collaboration between the natural and the cultural. I begin by manipulating steel, wood, glass and plastic, in order to represent my inclination towards order and control. I then employ ephemeral materials, such as trees, soil, water and light in order to represent the unpredictable world around me. With these two material extremes, I compose frames, containers and enclosures in which the cultural elements attempt to hold and embrace the natural. Ultimately, these constructed situations are intended as portraits of human communication and interactions.
About the work
Title: The Redemptive Quality of Life II

Art form: 3-D

Medium: 30-yard dumpster (donated by Waste Management), trees, trash bags

Year created: Work not created yet

Description of work: My proposed sculpture is titled The Redemptive Quality of Life II and consists of a 30-yard dumpster donated by Waste Management with numerous large trees planted inside and dozens of trash bags surrounding their trunks. For passersby, it will appear as though this grove of trees is growing out of the most improbable of conditions, a dumpster full of trash. Out from the refuse of human existence springs life, growing and thriving in this unexpected environment.

Technical details
Linear wall space needed: n/a
Total square feet needed: 184 sq. ft.
Additional considerations
Audio/video needed: No
Electrical needed: No
Lighting needed: No
Internet access needed: No
Ground floor access needed: No
Indoor space needed: No
Outdoor space needed: Yes
Gillette Bridge Jackson Martin is showing at:
Gillette Bridge
Bridge between Pearl and Michigan
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Venue location

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Artist resume