Favorite Object: African American Museum in Philadelphia

Don't Tread on Me

2011

Caste Rubber, Found Materials, and Tread

Christopher Carter

The Stalwart installation by Christopher Carter is a collection of pieces and sculptures made from found objects. The exhibition is on display until December 31, 2012 at the African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP). Many of the materials used in the sculptures came from an abandoned barn in Connecticut where the artist is originally from. The pieces have a common symbolism of flags and stars throughout the installation. I chose the piece "Don't Tread on Me", since it was one of the pieces I felt that clearly stated its idea as a flag. The symmetry and pattern to the piece is very similar to flags flown around the world, and shows how flags are a universally understood concept. This piece has a literal component to it with the title being "Don't Tread on Me" and having an actual tire tread as a focal point to this piece. I like this play on word and I like the use of the tire tread in this piece. I also remember Adrienne Whaley, the Curator of Education, telling us how the artist's idea of flags and symbolism and what flag burning represent and if he were to create his own flag, it would have to be something very difficult to burn. Looking at this piece, seeing all the rubber and the tire being used, I know it would certainly be something very difficult to burn. 

This object is on display on the wall with its text piece alongside of it. Nearby are two more wall pieces. They also have the look and feel of representing flags. The installation in the first gallery has a lot of wall pieces, and surrounds the perimeter. The second gallery space has a few more larger sculptures, including some that the visitor can walk 360 degrees around.  

A background in architecture and building conservation would be beneficial to have a better understanding of some of the found objects that are used in the installation. It would be interesting to know what exactly the small hair-pin like objects that are in this object is and what they are usually used for. Was it a part of a machine? Did they hold together large skeins of rope? It would provide another level of insight and interpretation to the objects. 

Those who would not be interested in this object could be those who don't like this more rustic and modern style of art and sculpture. Those who prefer a more classic and elegant style aesthetic, rather than this more Americana and craft style. Some of the pieces are overwhelming with materials and can convey a lot of emotions and feelings. 

Opposing views would find these pieces to be too cluttered and confusing to be interpreted. This piece in particular, some would find the title to be misleading and think of the Gadsden Flag, and interpret the meaning of this piece in an entirely different way. 

Gadsden Flag

Programming ideas could be to have participants design their own flags or pieces that symbolize something important to them. Flags could be made from found materials and can be displayed in any fashion that the participant sees fit.