Tommy Frank

Artist Statement

My work is a fusion of functional objects and displays in a context that promotes social commentary and self examination. Themes of commemoration and achievement (trophies, merit badges, collectables) combine with contemporary drinking culture to explore overblown masculine rituals and rites. These objects analyze the absurdity of machismo while touching on the themes that stereotypically bring men together. Common interests taken from pop culture and men’s advertising feed these stereotypes. By bringing these stereotypes into the open, my work becomes a platform for discussion about truth and the realities of being a contemporary male in western culture. It questions the nature of collecting objects as a way of attaining real or culturally-packaged masculinity.

-- Tommy Frank