FARCE PRIZE

Caitlyn Coupe, Farce Prize, 2010

My latest work ‘Farce Prize’ is a series of found object assemblages. The sculptural pieces comment on materialistic values evident within modern day society and how people use possessions to measure their success and self worth. Furthermore, ‘Farce Prize’ comments on the judgement of others that occurs through their possessions to determine one’s quality of life and success.

The assemblages have been created using objects that are purely ornamental, purposeless, and without function. Most of the objects are possessions that are more often than not seen in a display cabinet or on a mantelpiece much like a trophy. While all of the collected objects within the assemblage could be viewed individually as a symbol of prestige and wealth, it is the trophy formation that communicates the way in which people use these objects to portray wealth and success. In the desperate attempt for social acceptance/status, people adorn themselves as well as their houses to uphold this façade of a successful and wealthy life, which can apparently be measured by one’s objects.

Farce Prize, 2010, (Detail)

This work began from the interest of - and as an attempt to understand - materialistic values prominent within western culture. I have come to a conclusion that materialistic values are generally a trait that assists in self-reassurance as well as short-term happiness, ultimately diminishing quality of life. These trophies represent the objects people award themselves to prove ‘success’; farce prizes.

                          Farce Prize, 2010, (Detail)