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Concerned Students Fund Billboard size Artwork
A group of very concerned students at Oregon State University
have raised thousands of dollars to fund a billboard size artwork
with a powerful political message that will hang from buildings on
their campus and other campuses across the United States.
The students who wish to remain anonymous for fear of retribution
from our government's stance on patriotism, will be making the
artwork available to student groups who share their
sentiments.
The artwork, "Sharing the Wealth" was painted by Mark Henson in
2000. It is a satyrical look at the painful reality of why people may
be angry at the United States policies, actions and culture. The
painting was meant to evoke compassion and humanitarian attitudes,
however in some people it arouses anger.
It depicts a suntanned couple in a red sport scar traveling down
an opulent glittering street scene. The driver is throwing a
half-eaten hamburger out the window into a third world slum, complete
with military presence, sweat shops, pollution and poverty.
"We know this will upset people, but they need to see it, even if they don't
like it" said one of the fund raisers. "One look may change how
people view their life and loyalties. We want to use this size of an
image to get the attention that the message deserves. Look at what we
import off of the sweat and toil of the world's populations. Look at
what we export, misuse of the environment, wasteful over consumption.
blatant disregard for life, violence and the tools of violence. We need to wake people up."
Mark Henson, the artist, was taken by surprise when the students
first asked him for permission to use his image. His comment "Art is not a crime."
If you belong to a student group and want this or other art by
Mark Henson at your campus, you're encouraged to contact us.
please report web errors to
Ms. Monti
