Justin Quaid Grubb
Mars is for Fags

ABSTRACT

The overarching theme dealt with in my work relates to the Space Age - specifically the predictive futuristic approach to product design and the pop culture that came out of the movement. During this time, technological advancements permeated American culture. Manufactures made the future accessible to everyone and futuristic living became symbolic of innovation, progress, and prosperity. A blueprint for a futurist suburban utopia was forged and the American people were ready to embody the new “American Dream.” Residential Mid-Century Modern architecture emerged as the new site for this dream and along with it came a new way of life. 

By refurbishing the camp sci-fi aesthetic of the Space Age to fit the new era of human space flight, my work becomes a playful commentary on the commodification of the future and the resurgence of space exploration in contemporary pop culture. Within this commentary, I take an autobiographical approach to investigating the role of objects in the communication of identity. Further influence derived from Mid-Century Modern residential architecture, highlights an interest in aspirational living. In examining the branding of such aspirational living, I explore my own relationship to domestic life. The trajectory of my work moves from defining the Neo-Space Age object, to using said objects in a mock lifestyle brand. This lifestyle brand produces reactions to heteronormative representations of domestic bliss, which leads to markers of reclamation. 

Prelude to Mars

In collaboration with playwright Alexa Derman (www.alexaderman.com). 

Stop Motion 

6:40;09

2021


 

Image

05:45;19

Prelude to Mars (Stills)

Stop Motion (Ceramic, Luster, Oak, Concrete, Metallic Paint, Felt Base Stem Glides)

06:40;09 

2021


 

Mars is for Fags, Capsules 01 - 09

Ceramic, Oak, Concrete, Metallic Paint

21.75" x 21.75" x 24" (each)

2021


 

Image

Mars is for Fags

Mars is for Fags

Ceramic, Oak, Concrete, Metallic Paint

9.5' x 9.5' x 2'

2021