December 2024 / the work speaks for itself

the work speaks for itself

by Quinton Merada

December 05 - 28, 2024
Opening Reception / Thursday, December 05, 5–8pm

Winter Hours:
Friday–Sunday, 11am–4pm

the work speaks for itself, examines the frustrations of modern labor through tongue in cheek idioms about the working class and their capitalist counterparts.

By assembling conceptual sculpture with found objects, Merada builds on his previous notions of tools obtaining class associated histories. His practice re-contextualizes these found objects in an effort to elevate and foreground overlooked classes while conducting critiques on the privileges of wealthy elites.

In this exhibition, dark humor and absurdist perspectives play an essential role in conducting dialogue concerning the working class. By using comical phrases and classic idioms, Merada hopes to identify with viewers on a broader spectrum of working class exploitation while also presenting another form of class structure that dictates modern society.

ARTIST BIO //

Quinton Merada (b. 1994, he/him) currently resides in Tacoma, WA but was born and raised in St. Petersburg, FL. Merada was born to a teacher and union member laborer. He graduated from the University of Florida with a BFA in sculpture. His works have been exhibited at a number of institutions and galleries with his latest solo exhibition at the Morean Art Center in St. Petersburg, FL. His latest group shows include institutions such as PUNCH Projects in Throp, WA, Port Angeles Fine Arts Center in Port Angeles, WA, Bumbershoot Contemporary in Seattle, WA and Carnation Contemporary in Portland, OR.