PEOPLE

Introducing “PEOPLE” - a mixed-media art installation made possible by the Ted Democracy Initiative, Bellarmine University, and Super Weird Studios 2024. This dynamic installation aims to discuss topics in global democracy, community engagement, and the role of art in political discourse. Participants will have multi-faceted opportunities to engage in the four-part contemporary artwork, challenging traditional ideas of who gets to participate, and how, in different circles of discourse.

Super Weird Studios 2024

Mixed-Media Art Installation

Voting Booth

The "Voting Booth" experience emphasizes the individuals’ connections between art and the self. Democratic values shine through personal expression, and by symbolizing the “expression of political voice," the voting booth aims to redefine its place. Aside from existing primarily for governmental systems and political activism, it can also be a platform for unique participation on a larger scale—an invitation to rethink the limitations we place.

Each panel of the voting booth will have unique parts containing transferred and spray-painted illustrations and media. Local organizations associated with the installation had the opportunity to submit imagery to influence the direction of the voting booth artwork. The voting booth is constructed with wood panels, designed to 1. be easily taken apart and divided after the installation to 2. keep the conversation going.

Super Weird Studios, 2024

Spray-Painted 4' x 3' Canvas Turned Foldable "Voting" Booth

Community Reflected

“Community Reflected” expands the function of an art gallery beyond merely displaying creations—it seeks to create a community. This work prompts reflection on the gallery’s role in politics, social arts, and participation in the art experience. By challenging the traditional “silent gallery experience,” it advocates for the active involvement of all parties, encouraging conversation, participation, and civic engagement.

The piece features furniture screen-printed with artwork from the PEOPLE installation, alongside an artist desk designed to foster open dialogue between participants and the artist. Visitors are invited to contribute their own media, with an accompanying webpage that facilitates anonymous submissions—much like voting—creating an interactive and participatory experience.

The primary goal of “Community Reflected” is to promote engagement in processes that might otherwise feel unfamiliar or inaccessible, allowing for reflection on the possibility of creating pathways where none existed before.

Super Weird Studios, 2024

Mixed Media Furniture & Desk Spray-Painted and Stenciled

Use Your Voice

“Use Your Voice” invites participants to explore the relationship between “people,” art, politics, and community through digital submissions. These contributions—imagery, audio, text, or video—are to be collected and displayed on a webpage, forming an ongoing repository designed to reflect diverse perspectives.

A QR code to scan will be inside the installation booths instead of filling out traditional voting ballots. Scanning the QR code within the booth’s privacy symbolizes the act of “voting.” here. This approach is environmentally conscious by reducing waste and also acknowledges the constraints of scheduling, allowing for submissions beyond just the installation window.

The QR code submissions can be made anonymously and will serve as a reflection of public consciousness, exploring themes of values and identity.

Super Weird Studios, 2024

Mixed Media Digital Art, Website, & Repository