Assessment #3 - Artists #4

I wanted to include these artists as they use thread in amazing ways, but what I really want to focus on is how they utilize and add new dimensions to a given space.
The artists are the duo known as HOT TEA whose work is described as thread-bombing graffiti. After being arrested for spray-painting graffiti, they wanted to explore different avenues:

"The HOTTEA project developed after a trip to jail, but it was also heavily inspired by past experiences: A grandmother teaching the skill of knitting, anti-gay bullying from kids at school, and, most importantly, the relationships that that were developed along the way — negative, or positive. HOTTEA explains, “The HOTTEA project embodies the similarities and differences in all of us. I wanted to base the project off an idea that had room for growth. We are always growing as people and the dynamic between people gives endless possibilities.”

 

Watch timelapse: http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2011/03/hot-tea/

I am most interested in his installation called 'Letting Go' which was placed in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Suspending 84 Miles of thread Eric Rieger (HOT TEA) attemptis to create his own interpretation of the sun.

'At least once in our lives we have all had to let go of something we truly love. Whether it be a pet, personal object or in some cases, loved ones. This piece is my interpretation of the sun. The sun brings life and also represents happiness, warmth and energy. When letting go of something or someone we truly love, sometimes it is okay to celebrate their lives along with mourning. This piece represents the warmth and love I have received from those I have had to let go of.'

Watch Timelapse:http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2012/07/a-sun-of-thread-84-miles-of-string-suspended-at-mia-by-hottea/

The MIA has this beautiful rounded alcove with such luminescent lighting - HOT TEA's work uses this space to its fullest advantage - not distracting or taking away from the space but enhancing its already inherent attributes.
Additionally the circular shape has the association with the sun, and the brightly coloured string aids this interpretation. Even without knowing the intended meaning or concepts behind the artists decisions, this work allows the audience to want to sit under it and bask in its glow, lying next to strangers who want to experience the same feeling.
For our group project, I hope that Carmen and I can create a similar feeling. We are not aiming to shock, confuse, baffle or scare university students at 9am on a Monday morning, we simply want to add colour, charm and intricacy to a bland and sterile area.