Dogs, Guns, and Fences

4.5'X 7.5'X 2.5'
barbed wire
4/91
$3,500 (sold)

View 1

View 2

I saw a newspaper photograph that seemed to capture the essence of this sculpture. The photograph was part of an article about a Ku Klux Klan rally in Asheville. It showed a young man with a buzz-cut wearing black clothes with a confederate flag on the back of his shirt. He was accompanied by a spike-collared pit bull on a chain. His whole presence said, "stand back unless you share my views". I am concerned about polarization in our society. Most people are inclined to associate with others who share their beliefs and avoid contact with those who might challenge them. We isolate ourselves from those whom we fear with dogs, guns, and fences and our isolation deepens our fears.