Big Medium presents:
At Odds with My Principles
Ian M. O’Brien
Exhibition Dates: Friday, October 8th – November 5th, 2010
Opening Reception: Friday, October 8th from 8:00 - 11:00pm
Please join Big Medium for At Odds with My Principles, an anthropological and archeological peek into the history of Grip River, a town founded, developed and solely-run by the artist, Ian O’Brien. Since cultivating this society in 2007, O’Brien has begun to excavate its significant history and founder, while comparing Grip River to some of the remarkable civilizations of ancient times. The viewer is invited to discover the artist’s findings, such as a giant pencil catapult, pencil spears and straw spit shooters, which expose the town’s battle-weary past, compelling leader and the society’s effect on world history.
Artist Statement:
In 2007, I founded the Town of Grip River, where I am the sole proprietor of a completely egocentric society. As the mayor, city council, newspaper editor, architect, contractor, construction worker, archeologist and army general, I do everything to keep the community running.
In 2008, I began to take a deeper look into Grip River’s past by excavating archeological sites, learning about its people, the Nuewhotu, their politics and how these early founders of Grip River society stack up against some of the greatest civilizations of the ancient world. After looking at historical frontrunners, such as Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Mayor O’Brien and so on, I discovered that all can be characterized as enigmatic, natural-born leaders, in command of powerful armies that helped them conquer vast territories, subjugate the weak and stamp their mark on the annuals of history.
Ancient lore, broken artifacts and a war-torn landscape are all that remain of the once proud Nuewhotu people. I invite you, the viewer, to learn about Grip River’s leader and history to decide for yourself where Grip River stands in comparison with the greatest civilizations of the ancient world.
Gallery hours: Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am-4:00 pm, or by appointment.
5305 Bolm Road #12
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