1993 - Red Cedar, Sugar Maple, Black Walnut, Mahogany, Sassafras and Ebony - 33 x 31 x 16inches
This carving is about the phrase in the First Amendment regarding freedom of the press. Having freedom of the press doesn't automatically assure having an informed public. Unlike the air we breathe, news and information doesn't enter our systems without a conscious effort on our part. Even with great effort it's impossible to keep up with the news that's available every day.
Two opposite extremes in attitude about this situation are depicted here. The figure leaning against the fence is ignoring the newspaper hanging over the brace at his left elbow. He thinks he already knows everything worth knowing and that it's useless to cluttter his mind with further information. The other figure is nearly submerged in a mire but is making an effort to reach the news even though it's beyond his reach. He's no better informed than the other guy but at least he understands how little he knows.
Commentary has been exhibited at 1. the Tennessee Art League membership show at the Parthenon in Nashville, fall 1993, 2. Katzman-Werthan show at Nashville's Jewish Community Center, spring 1994, 3. Illusions From the Left Side at Madisonville Community College, spring 1996, 4. Day Dreams, an invitational exhibit at the Capitol Arts Center in Bowling Green, KY, 1995