Deconstructing the Habit

NEW YORK, NY – Spattered Columns, an exhibition space operated by the non-profit Art Connects New York (ACNY), is pleased to announce the opening of “Deconstructing the Habit” curated by Angela Washko on June 6, 2012.

In an era characterized by conspicuous consumption, …a slipping middle class, 60 hour work weeks, and systematically habitual models and standards for living, the exhibiting artists respond to the foundations of routine. The artists in “Deconstructing the Habit” respond to contemporary lifestyle models shaped by the blurring of news and advertising—the dissolving of “wants” into “needs”. Exhibiting artists include Pauline Bastard, Yana Dimitrova, Hannah Heilmann, Ann Hirsch, Zehra Khan and Tim Winn, Kristoffer Orum and Anders Bojen, Molleindustria, Nathaniel Sullivan, and The Council on Gender Sensitivity and Behavioral Awareness in RPGs.

Looking at the dangerous archetypes of women created in reality television, Ann Hirsch shares her experience and mental state on “Frank the Entertainer in a Basement Affair.” Hannah Heilmann, Zehra Khan, Nathaniel Sullivan and Molleindustria look at the effects of consuming projected models for successful lifestyles on quality of life. Pauline Bastard and Yana Dimitrova present detailed moments that are consumed daily and frequently taken for granted. The Council on Gender Sensitivity and Behavioral Awareness in RPGs unearths both subtle and not-so-subtle gender-based stereotypes in role-playing video games while Kristoffer Orum and Anders Bojen create live action role playing opportunities for already marginalized enthusiasts.

During the opening reception, visitors will have the opportunity to experience the "Raccoontown Beauty Boutique" -a live performance by collaborative pair Zehra Khan & Tim Winn. While the traditional process of beautification often involves hair grooming, hair removal, applying make-up and product, Raccoontown Beauty Boutique encourages hair, whiskers and claws. The more beastly, the better.