Ducks in a Row, 2013

DUCKS IN A ROW

(A short history of art since Chris Burden has himself shot)

To many the expression ducks in a row simply means to be well organized. To some, though, the image instantly conjures up a row of ducks to be shot.  This group show, featuring artists from Dogpatch and beyond, reviews art history since Chris Burden’s Shoot (1974), and asks a question: How much time is required to understand, underscore, and move on?

The question applies to art as much as to politics, because the two are interrelated. Sure, it’s “just art” – but for the most compelling artists, just art is art that makes justice. (Or is that just a justification?)

What does it mean to see a crime? What are your responsibilities? Do you have a responsibility for the art that you see? Weapons kill. People kill. Words and images kill. And your perception of ducks in a row says a lot about you. In truth, it’s a way of organizing people.

So now: Show me a duck!

Artists include Tony Labat, Joseph DeLappe, Jonathon Keats, Nat Wilson, Marcy Freedman, Mimi Mayer, Adam Gale, Guido Gerlitz, Guy Overfelt, and Yoram Wolberger.

“…to many, the expression “ducks in a row” simply means to be well organized…