Artist Statement Project 2

The cuckoo clock is perhaps one of the more identifiable translations of the wall clock archetype. I have taken the concept of the cuckoo clock and distilled it down to its most abstract form: a basic structure with a bird theme. To make it as far removed as possible from the elaborate, carved wood houses traditionally found on this type of clock I have opted to make a basic grid design out of an ultra modern mirrored acrylic to represent the house structure. Hanging below the grid is a messy nest woven from twig shaped brown felt with a wrist watch face sewn into either side. This nest ties in the over arching cuckoo bird theme and brings a warm, organic element to contrast the stark, modernity of the grid. To further abstract the general clock element I have oriented this piece perpendicular to the wall since traditionally most clocks sit flat against the wall, and the small wrist watches contrast the usual notion that clocks on the wall need to be large. These concepts both play off of the idea that clocks are becoming increasingly more of a decoration than a necessity, slowly being rendered obsolete as cell phones, television, and computers are being used to tell time. The end result is a modern piece made from the “bare bones” of a traditional one; therefore it serves both a modern and traditional purpose.

Horn Images

Cord making sources and inspirations.

Our biggest challenge may be in making the cord part of our tin can telephone inspired piece. Here are some sources I found on making string/rope/cord yourself from various materials.

How to make a thin string/cord from sewing threads.

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-To-Make-Yo-Yo-String/

How to make a simple rope (could be modified for turning thread to string).

http://www.scoutmastercg.com/2007/05/rope_making/

Simple rope making video.

http://youtu.be/FMxquIjKT1w

How to make string from a willow branch video.

http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Make-String-from-Willow-166379579

Willow branch string making instructions.

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-String-from-Natural-Sources

How to make cordage from natural plant sources.

http://violet-snow.suite101.com/how-to-make-cordage-a35134