HUNG
Laser engraved dry cleaning hangers, 2021
Dimensions vary

hung continues my exploration of how language can both communicate meaning and obfuscate it. Between 1893 and 1937, prisoners at San Quentin were executed by hanging. hung memorializes these people through art.

Vintage wood and metal commercial clothes hangers are hung in a grid from the ceiling with a length of red thread tied with a bow. Each hanger features the original dry cleaner’s advertisement on one side, the reverse has been laser engraved with an idiom related to hanging accompanied with the name, age and date for one of the 215 people executed by hanging at San Quentin. The first being Jose Gabriel, 60, March 3, 1893 and the final being John McNeil, 52, on July 9, 1937.

Next year will be the 85th anniversary of the last hanging at San Quentin.  I could see a larger institution using this installation to show involvement of the institution in the current social justice movement. I think there are a number of interesting sites and possibilities. I would like to keep it local, but it being seen is more important to me than where. 

I could see a really thought provoking catalog. Going into the history of hanging to current practice of execution. Looking at racial and economic disparities of the inmates at the time. A very brief history and mugshot for each inmate hung would give a small recognition. It could be very cool, not in a morbid way. 

As you can see, I have given this piece a lot of thought as I have been working on it.  If I had someone committed to showing it, It would only take a month to have it finished and ready to install.