fake ivory, 2012

The Fake Ivory Series are sculpture that connect the protective tools of hunted megafauna, the tusks with scrimshaw or tattoo-like images of fossil fuel carbon chains encircling these simulated artifacts, a commentary on the value placed on energy over life of all species.

Oil companies often refer to larger oil fields as “Elephants”, which got me thinking about the relationship of mineral extraction to habitat loss of large megafauna, like Whales, Walruses, Polar Bears and of course, Elephants. These sculptures were made in response to threats presented by drilling, and diminishing habitat for threatened species at the top of the food chain. In the process of making an area safe for oil drilling and the lucrative commerce of assault weapons, these creatures are poached for their tusks, which make their way onto the black market. As oil is referred to as “Black Gold”, similarly, Ivory has come to be known as “White Gold.”

Welded steel and encaustic wax with transfers, 2012. All are life-size.

Narwhal (detail)

Hippo