This temporary structure is being built to house the 12 portraits of the people I meet on the streets. It also stands as a symbol of the beautiful collision of sacred and earthly. By recognizing and arranging humble earthly objects in these specific dimensions, they represent a space of hallowed consecration. This construction is not about adding some specific quality to what is lacking, it is a matter of revealing life and vitality to what was there all along. Some of the materials include: cardboard, wood, metal, dirt, asphalt, tent material, clothing, newspaper, plastic bags, and chain link fencing. But just as the portraits, these materials will find new value, even beauty, as they are reclaimed and repurposed.
This exhibition is being built primarily with the Skid Row community in mind. By putting it just outside of Union Rescue Mission on San Julian Street, the Skid Row community will have it right in their midst. There is much more in mind for this community than just drawing their portraits– one way this will all be coming together is by having them help us put the Structure all together in the days leading up to the show.
