Instructions Not Included

Instructions Not Included constructed a visual discussion around the creative possibilities of readymade culture. The exhibition served as a forum for the re-examination of industrial design, our daily environment, and the objects we surround ourselves with. Throughout the project, artists offered homemade recipes and shared ideas for the re-contextualization of everyday goods to radical ends.

Artspace’s gallery, referencing its own history as a furniture factory, was converted into a workshop-cum-showroom throughout the exhibition. On display were objects that blur the lines between functional constructs and sculpture, often with a political or sustainable foundation. Shoes, cookies, furniture, and sculpture from some of the most inventive minds around were on exhibit, showcasing a full spectrum of ideas—from the elegant and functional to the sublimely quirky.

In addition to the exhibition, there were four artists-in-residence for the duration of the show; these artists collaborated together on short-term projects. Each of the artists occupied a portion of the showroom, with a desk area and visuals board to share their concepts, working process, and inspirations. Activating audiences outside of our galleries, and celebrating our historic building, is a key component of the show—in pursuit of this, we included a series of exterior projects by artists interested in enhancing the outside of the Chamberlain Building. Exterior projects included an ornate crocheted sign, a hacked neon sign, a flag banner, and a peep-show diorama.

Artists-in-Residence:

• Mary Little
• Cory Smith
• TJ Volonis
• Helen Zajkowski

Exhibition Artists:

• El Mu Co: Scott Petersen & Brian Kane
• Sibylle Grosjean
• Fritz Horstman
• Judith Klausner
• Mary Little
• Matt Ruby
• Cory Smith
• TJ Volonis
• Helen Zajkowski

With exterior projects by:

• Robert Brush
• Robyn Love
• Ben Sloat
• Elizabeth Whalley