Andrew Atkin, Firepits and Food Courts, 2018

Stonewear replicas of single use plastics, plywood, milkcrates


In 'Firepits and Food Courts,' I explore the evolutionary trajectory of human food systems, tracing a continuum from our earliest technological innovations in ceramic vessels and woven baskets to the contemporary reliance on injection-molded milk crates and vacuum-formed plastics.

Drawing inspiration from the ancient origins of food infrastructure, I contemplate the enduring significance of these foundational technologies in shaping our relationship with sustenance. The once-primitive vessels and baskets, emblematic of our early cultural origins, have evolved into the ubiquitous plastic containers and crates that underpin modern food distribution networks.

Through my work, I seek to illuminate the interconnectedness of past and present, inviting viewers to consider the implications of our reliance on mass-produced plastics in the context of our shared culinary heritage. By juxtaposing ancient and contemporary forms, I aim to provoke reflection on the evolution of human ingenuity and the environmental impact of our modern food systems.

'Firepits and Food Courts' serves as a visual dialogue between tradition and innovation, offering a contemplative space to ponder the intricate web of connections that bind us to our food, our history, and our community.

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