By Zeke Moores
Located in Montreal, Quebec
Text by Michelle Cantin-Reid
The common object reconstructed through skilful assembly and technique; casted, welded, and chased metal forms; almost perfect doppelgangers of the originals, this is how Zeke Moores’ work appears. Upon closer consideration, the materiality of these pieces comes to light. Deceivingly close to the real thing, they greatly diverge from the original.
From chromed steel Trashcans to the reconstructed Port-O-Potty made from cast aluminum and nickel-plated steel, Moores uses metalsmithing techniques to render his sculptures, usurping of the traditional modes of mass production as well as the disposable materiality that we associate with these objects. In his work, mechanised assembly line production and objects made to be thrown out or forgotten become a craftsman’s labour of love. As the disposable dejected everyday object is taken from the street and placed into the gallery, our use and imposition of a hierarchy on objects becomes apparent. However, it also speaks of the amount of work no longer done by people or often done by a series of anonymous workers in a repetitive but carefully choreographed dance with machines. We approach very differently a practical or a mass-produced object and one that is crafted.
These works also celebrate those objects designed for practical but not specifically aesthetic purposes. The imposition of a new materiality gives them durability and in the case of bronze casts or chrome plating a superficial prestige. Sitting in a gallery contemplated and beheld, the cast bronze Barrier is not unlike a monument or a statue. Though, these nobler materials are not wherein the beauty lies. Happy Meal...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Post-Modern Sculptures
