FINAL PHOTOS
Stop the Cycle
Materials: Air-dry Clay, Ink, Cardboard, Glue, Drywall Compound, Acrylic Paint, Wire
Baseboard 12" x 9" x 12". Cat Sculpture 3½" x 2¼" x 2". Human Sculpture 3¼" x 2½" x 2"
Baseboard 12" x 9" x 12". Cat Sculpture 3½" x 2¼" x 2". Human Sculpture 3¼" x 2½" x 2"
Bust 1
Bust 2
ARTIST STATEMENT
Stop the Cycle focuses on addressing the stray cat overpopulation on the streets by reversing the roles between humans and cats. Kittens born outside are highly susceptible to getting upper respiratory infections and other eye injuries (as well as other things), so I took both these qualities and gave to the human bust, which I then placed in the alley hidden in cardboard as feral cats are often found. On the other hand, the cat is clean and well kept, set on the privileged sidewalk, and looking away from the problem. The base's dirtied floor and brick wall emphasize the grungy alleyway that the human bust is cast into by the cat's actions, or more accurately, lack of action.
RESEARCH
Some of the best sources come from individuals who are passionate and personally, in this case making YouTube videos that provide instructional and informational videos on rescuing kittens and providing aide, as well as how to end the cycle (CONTENT WARNING FOR GRAPHIC INJURIES).
Flatbush Cats
Flatbush Cats is a nonprofit working exclusively in their area of New York towards ending the stray cat overpopulation with TNR and affordable spay and neuter centers, as well as adopting out as many cats as they have the resources for. They don't shy away from showing the gruesome yet heartfelt side of rescue, and two of their videos (Video 1 and Video 2) is where I got the inspiration for the bulging kitten eyes.
The Kitten Lady
Both on YouTube and Instagram, The Kitten Lady works exclusively with kittens, especially neonatal kittens, who usually have been separated from their mothers and have to be raised by hand. These kittens usually don't stand much chance of surviving in over-crowded shelters, so she provides resources for those wanting to help and is constantly pioneering new ways for others to help kittens (such as those with specials needs).
Orphan Kitten Club
Founded by Hannah Shaw (The Kitten Lady) and other passionate rescue volunteers, Orphan Kitten Club advocates that every kitten deserves living despite of any challenges that they might face. Kittens that previously might have otherwise been ethnized all over the US get a chance at life with grants to become "Mighty Cats," or cats who overcame hardship to live long and happy lives. While the other two resources provide a look at more immediate action, Orphan Kitten Club showcases the effect that this helping out can have.
PROCESS PHOTOS
Additional Images
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