Undivided

Patricia Piccinini

Undivided

2004

Silicone, fibreglass, human hair, teddy, bed and linen

This piece was part of her show Natures little helpers designed as a concept that science could focus on genetically engineering helper creatures for endangered animals rather than setting aside national parks. Humans could actively do something. The growths coming out of the back of the helper creature in the bed are where the small, endangered animals can stay. They will be protected by a separate bodyguard helper creature; and bread by another. She has an entire world set up around her concept. The round cute ones like the one in Undivided, are surrogates. Clearly loving creatures. The way she sets up scenes showing how the creatures interact with small children tells so much about the creature’s dispositions. The young children are fragile and defenseless much like the endangered species, this makes it easier for humans to see how they would interact with another creatures young if they can relate it to their own. Even the kindest creatures in our imaginations are plump. If that which is beautiful, is good, how can thin be good if its not comforting in the middle of the night.

http://www.patriciapiccinini.net/natureslittlehelpers/shows/11Undivided/hires/20Undivided.jpg

Piccinini, Patricia. “Nature’s Little Helpers.” Patricia Piccinini . N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2010. .

- - -. “Undivided.” Natures Little Helpers. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Apr. 2010. .