That’s Amore, 2009, Mixed media installation, Dimensions variable

That's Amore is inspired by the marketplace-driven occasion of Valentine's Day, which celebrates love or becomes a painful reminder of a lack thereof. The emphasis is placed on the mass marketing of romantic love that can stir up personal insecurities about the expectations of consumer society to be in a relationship, at least by February 14th.

I decided to make unmarketable, humorous styrofoam conversation hearts (8” x 8” x 2”), which are painted like the popular candy with mean and insulting sentiments in red glitter, such as “Get Lost,” “Size Matters,” and “Fugly.” They can standalone or create a wall full of “endearing” sentiments to overwhelm the consumer.