The Kalashnikov or AK-47 (standing for )was invented by Mikhail Kalashnikov and has had what could beconsidered an illustrious trajectory in becoming first the standardissue rifle for the Russian military and then exported en masseto cold war battlegrounds in the middle east and especially Africa. Insome countries, Mozambique for example, it is seen as a key element intheir struggle against colonialism and imperialism and was even adoptedas an image on their flag on May 1st 1983 (Recent years have seen asharp debate to have it removed). Kalashnikov has been quoted that he is proud that for many his invention is synonymous with liberty, he has also stated that it was Germany'sfault that he became a fabricator of arms otherwise he would havehappily stayed and agricultural engineer which was what he was previousto being drafted into the Red Army during WWII. A few interesting facts about General Kalashnikov on his Wiki profile here.
Asfor the name I've given the piece, Something for Everyone, it has to dowith this type of work which i feel leaves no one indifferent. I startwith concern/interest in the composition of the object but ultimatelyam also aware of it's socio-political as well as historic significance.As far as scale is concerned I was due for a big one. This piece shouldnot be confused as a pro arms stance or celebration of the arm itselfbut more an opportunity for reflection.
Asfor the name I've given the piece, Something for Everyone, it has to dowith this type of work which i feel leaves no one indifferent. I startwith concern/interest in the composition of the object but ultimatelyam also aware of it's socio-political as well as historic significance.As far as scale is concerned I was due for a big one. This piece shouldnot be confused as a pro arms stance or celebration of the arm itselfbut more an opportunity for reflection.
Something for Everyone, Steel, Red flocking fibers, adhesive, 350cm x 120cm x 5cm
