30” x 48” x 48” each
Installation view
BodySpace
Baltimore Museum
Baltimore, MD
Curated by Helen Molesworth
Participating artists include; Robert Gober, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Sowon Kwon, Claudio Matzko, Ernesto Neto, Josiah McElheny, Cady Noland, David Schafer, Do-Ho Suh.
Stepped Density refers to high or stacked density in urban development. Seating and stool heights, and the distance between them is calculated based on the science of anthropometry combined with marketing forces. The distance that is standardized and measured between seats is based on percentages of pleasure to displeasure. The closer the distance between seats, creates a higher percentage of displeasure, and similarly the greater the distance between seats (or bodies) the greater the comfort or pleasure. These ratios and metrics are used in the engineering of social spaces and the intended marketing and usage of a space. The metrics and standards are based on the dimension of the male body and the built environment is based on these metrics and ratios. These mathematical models directly impact how social space is envisioned, developed, and built. In Stepped Density there are two mainframes that are identical, each with 8 vertical stands with seats mounted on top. They represent 4 stool heights at 30 inches tall and 4 seating heights at 18 inches tall. In Stepped Density One, the stools are on the corners with the seats in between, and in Stepped Density Two, the seats are on the corners and the higher stools are in between them. The arrangement and shift between the two suggest models for layered density and hierarchy for the occupying bodies. These are envisioned as a model for representing the calculated market forces that are embedded and exerted to control how we conform to, and flow through the urban environment as a consumer and product.