Flower Power led by Carlos F Carrillo Jr., 2018
shown at Icosa gallery, Austin, TX
In the sculpture "Flower Power," CCYD presents a compelling exploration of the increasingly blurred boundaries between nature and technology in our contemporary world. Constructed from industrial materials like metal pipes, electrical conduit, and light boxes, the work takes on the form of a pinecone or an artificial tree canopy, blending the organic and the synthetic in a striking visual metaphor.This deliberate juxtaposition challenges the viewer's perception of what is natural and what is artificial, inviting contemplation on the ways in which technology has become deeply embedded within our natural environments.
The sculpture's design reflects the concept of "post-nature," where the traditional divide between nature and human intervention is transcended, and the two realms coexist in a symbiotic, intertwined relationship.At the heart of "Flower Power" lies a concealed cellular transmission tower, a nod to the ubiquitous yet often invisible technological systems that underpin modern life. This hidden infrastructure serves as a poignant reminder of the pervasive presence of technology in our daily existence, even in the most seemingly natural settings. The sculpture's form, reminiscent of a tree or a pinecone, becomes a vessel for this technological component, blurring the lines between the natural and the artificial.
The interactive nature of "Flower Power" further reinforces the concept of post-nature. The individual light boxes within the sculpture are interconnected, allowing viewers to charge their personal electronic devices by inserting them into the empty outlets. This act of engagement with the work highlights the symbiotic relationship between humans and technology, where we rely on technological devices to connect with one another and navigate our daily lives.
