1) Immediate Response
Distillation has a very bleak look to it initially. Large metal tubing with jagged edges, spanning across multiple rooms. Huge shiny tanks and oddly shaped ones connected throughout. The piece gives off a very overbearing feeling that makes it seem very powerful and daunting. Each tube and pipe is outstretched almost as if they are looking for sunlight. It makes it feel like the piece is alive, pumping some liquid through the pipes as it stretches out further and further. It at first seems to be senseless mess of pipes and tubes, but looking closes they are all interconnected in one big system.
2) Objective Description
The piece consists of long lengths of metal piping, welded into artery or branch like patterns that spans across an entire room. One pipe is colored a bright red, connecting to the pipes with a red valve. On some of the offshoots, there are tanks and two kidney shaped vessels. Off of one of the branches is a very linear pattern of branches that spread out into a circuit like pattern. Some of these branches are connecting to the walls and the floor, and others just become smaller and smaller until they stop in the air.
3) Technical Decisions
The shiny metal chose for most of the piping gives the piece a very industrial and fabricated vibe to the piece. It looks like it was meticulously put together in a factory. It also makes the piece feel complicated and unusual, like some machine you would see in a warehouse or factory that you cant figure out how it works. The placement of the red painted pipe amongst the metal ones makes it feel like it has a lifeline, a pipe that it supplying the entire system. It adds a sense of mystery to the pieces purpose. Without the red painted pipe, I feel the piece’s meaning would change.
4) The Work in the World
I think this piece is reflecting on industry and the human body. It’s appearance connects it to industrial machinery, distillery machines and other alcohol manufacturing and processing machines. But with a closer look, it has aspects of the human body tied into it. It’s complexity and intricacies connects to both the human body and the world of alcohol production. I think it also ties into the complications of the laws around underage drinking in America and how many teenagers break this law.
5) The Story it Tells
I believe it is connected to the consumption of alcohol by many people today and how it is affecting our society.The story that “Distillation” tells is very complex and interconnected. It tells the story of the different machines and habits that shape our world. It suggests a sense of order and efficiency, but also a sense of chaos and confusion. The piece overall shows the viewers that there is, at the same time, order and serenity in our society but also a overlooming sense of bliss and confusion.