Pop Goes the Weasel
6’6” x 12’ x 12’
Chain-link fencing, chain, steel, hardware, paint
2017
2017 Open Studio Fellow
Artist Statement
In my artwork, I utilize recognizable and seemingly neutral commonplace objects that invite audiences to name, compare, and participate in theatrical re-arbitrations of value. Reminiscent of a Jack-in-the-box toy, the turnstile in the center appears to be winding up the chains and thus adding tension to the fence. The fence, n turn, attempts to fulfill its role in maintaining boundaries and restricting movement; but the impasse between fence and turnstile results in a distorted stasis that suggests the unsustainability of the tense situation.
By using chain-link fencing, the audience is placed outside this small yard and can witness the effect of the turnstile on the fence. Can a Jack-in-the-box go backwards? Can the box be removed? How can this tug-of-war be resolved?
Crank, crank, crank,
Turn, turn, turn
Just a little bit more
Watch and discern.
Leticia Bajuyo
Born: Paducah, KY, USA, 1976
Resides: Corpus Christi, TX, USA
Education
MFA, University of Tennessee – Knoxville, 2001
BFA, University of Notre Dame, 1998