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today's disposable society, product consumption seems to grow
increasingly obsessive and careless. It is decidedly disturbing
that Burger King can, without irony, unveil a 730 calorie breakfast
omelet sandwich immediately following the release of the blockbuster
documentary Super Size Me - where one witnesses the protagonist
Morgan Spurlock seriously jeopardize his health by subjecting
himself to a 30 day diet of McDonald's-only meals. Despite numerous
trenchant theses from great authors/researchers like Naomi Klein
(No Logo), Eric Schlosser (Fast Food Nation),
and countless others, the allure of having more always manages
to trump moderation and the inclination to disempower corporate
giants. Eat Sugar Spend Money explores issues of excess,
gluttony, wastefulness, and careless consumption. The artists
in the exhibition approach the theme with insightful criticisms
about this disturbingly pervasive cultural crisis. By employing
humor, subtlety, covert interventions, or simply beautiful art
objects, this varied group of artists makes a combined righteous
statement that encourages contemplation without seeming preachy
- a message speaking volumes through raised questions and brilliant
awareness. The potential predicament here is the likelihood of
the viewer to contradictorily desire more of what the artists
have to offer.
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