Settings: Artist Research- Sharon Kivland and Ben Hillwood-Harris

Artist research
Sharon Kivland and Ben Hillwood-Harris
The Abandonment of Origins



This work was similar to that of Mark Kelley. The artists placed reconstructions of found artefacts on a series of white plinths within the Mappin Art Gallery. The objects were accompanied by drawings of their structure and of the 'strata' upon which they were found. The work explored the idea of the the fictitious nature of cultural history and the way that the existence of the works within the gallery walls defined them as art and automatically empowered them with a sense of value, meaning, and cultural worth.

I had trouble finding information about this work. I wonder if the viewer was told that the objects on the plinths were reconstructions of found artefacts and not the genuine artefacts themselves. If the work gave an explanation as to the origin of the artefacts the viewer would be more inclined to understand the issues that the work is raising. If not, the viewer might just assume that the objects are of historical and cultural value without question. In either of these cases the response would be interesting.

The way that the artists has utilised the space is very effective. The placement of the objects onto the series of plinths gives an air of importance and value. This works to strengthen the idea that the environment surrounding an object can define its worth. Additionally, the general presentation of works of value of this nature are done so on a plinth; the structure of which elevates an object, literally and figuratively.

Based on the little information I could find regarding this piece it is difficult to say whether there are aspects of it that I would change. I would certainly find value in allowing the viewer to assume the objects on show are of high cultural and historical worth but would have a text near the exit explaining the origins of the pieces. I like the idea that the individual views the work under a certain pretence before being advised of the reality; allowing them to realises the effect that the gallery environment has on their views.