Measuring Sticks

We measure things—length, size, importance—in comparison to other things to evaluate how we measure up and where things fit in relation to each other. We use measuring sticks as a way to quantify and compare based on agreed upon definitions or givens. The Measuring Stick paintings, like the Noticed paperworks, are made from words and phrases taken directly from the news. Unlike the Noticed works, which are designed to evoke the temporary quality of news stories, the Measuring Sticks are intended to stand sturdy and more permanent. They hang next to each other, aligned on the baseline like a bar graph, to establish comparisons. The tall, thin format makes them challenging to read, slowing down the viewer’s understanding and forcing them to consider the phrase more deeply.

The Existing Literature
2021
51” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

The Size of Your Book Deal
2021
51” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

No One Was Aware of The End as It Happened
2021
76.5” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
2021
76.5” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

Revisionist History
2021
42.5” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

The Emperor's New Clothes
2021
42.5” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

Not Worth the Time and Effort
2021
59.5” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

The Luxury of Forgetting
2021
51” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

24 Karat Gold Flourishes
2021
59.5” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

Large Sums of Cash
2021
34” x 10”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

By No Means a Given
2021
34” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

A Bullshit Job
2021
34” x 11”
Acrylic on printed graphics on wood panel

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