Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Michelle Andreano, Jenny Holzer at the Allentown Courthouse

The most interesting thing about the Truisms installation at the Allentown Courthouse was the setting; just that you can find these granite benches inscribed with Truisms, seemingly conflicting truths, was fascinating. Given that people go to court because they have done things that conflict with what government says is against the law or because they have issue with another person's actions, which I think can be seen as people having conflicting morals (or truths!). To find these unassuming looking benches in a courthouse, where many people will interpret them in totally different ways, is a great idea and way to make people thing about what they believe.


Five of my favorite truisms were:

  • Elaboration is a form of pollution

  • People won't behave if they have nothing to lose

  • Drama often obscures the real issue

  • Use what is most dominant in a culture to change it quickly

  • A strong sense of duty imprisons you


Five of my own follow:


  • Trying to please people can make you disappear

  • Worrying only makes it worse

  • Having faith in yourself is usually foolish

  • Deadlines can be a comforting restraint.

  • Being your own boss is only works if you're a good leader.

1 comment:

  1. Yes, the setting is highly resonant when contrasted with the "Truism" content. And, largely invisible, situated here outside of the "artworld". Very interesting personal truisms. Good job!

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