Christine Lee
"Shims: Thousands of Uses - Use #3"
Earlier this year, I observed how wood shims were
being used for many different applications such as
window and door placement, and in custom cabinetry
systems. Wood shims seemed to be everywhere- even in
my apartment I found myself using them to stabilize
objects like my kitchen table.
It occurred to me that we live and work among hundreds
of positioned shims, but in most cases their presence
remains invisible, or rarely detected. Furthermore,
the importance of using shims extends beyond the
construction of our surroundings in not only making
objects level, parallel, or stabilized, but also in
making them appear to be those things. For example, in
trying to position a door frame there may be a chaotic
arrangement of shims underneath the drywall, but as
long as the visible exterior has the appearance of
order, we do not experience any visual discomfort and
our daily perceptions are satisfied.
For "Shims: Thousands of Uses- Use #3", home
appliances were borrowed, arranged and shimmed within
the four large windows that comprise this gallery's
storefront. It was my intention to create a perceptual
experience through the unexpected placement of
appliances we commonly use, surrounded and supported
by wood shims which are frequently used, but rarely
seen. Through the simple and repetitive tasks of
arranging, placement and stacking, I developed an
understanding and appreciation for the shim material
beyond its common associations and intended function.
The combination of repetition, rhythm, and
craftsmanship applied to this installation illustrate
the importance of the tactile experience within my
creative process.
At this particular location there is a combination of
high pedestrian foot traffic, public transportation,
and access to major freeways making the installation
readily accessible. It can be viewed from many
different vantage points- whether you are stuck in
traffic, taking the #7 bus, or walking the dog. I am
delighted with the thoughts of people coming across
the piece unexpectedly or within their daily routine.
I feel this type of interaction helps to reinforce the
connection between the surrounding community and
perceptual discoveries.
The ephemeral nature of this installation also serves
as a subtle promotion of alternative ways to use
materials with respect to our environment. Since the
shims are not permanently affixed or glued together,
they can be reused after the installation is removed.
At the conclusion, the shims will be delivered to the
San Diego Habitat for Humanity, where they can be used
again in construction and sold at the Restore.
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