Anson the Ornery

ANSON THE ORNERY’s interactive installation Shades, parodies art-as-bullion by not displaying any of the art in Anson’s solo exhibition. As the muffled sound of a cattle auctioneer can be heard a large pile of lamps shades illuminate the gallery walls and the white slightly raised lettering “Shades.” The low light obscures the space casting shadows the selected artworks. The light will not help much to see because each artwork is covered by a packing blanket. The artwork may not be seen but it can be felt. Literally, the gallery goers are encouraged to feel the art through the blankets. Is it a thrift store velvet painting of Elvis or a Monet? Could it be a common flower pot or Ming vase? The artworks identity has been hidden just like countless masterpieces.