"Cycle of Self-Determination" is a sculptural and fully-functional bicycle-powered woodworking lathe, activated in a series of durational gallery performances. Part of an ongoing investigation of the American value of self-reliance, "Cycle of Self-Determination" explores the ambiguity between self-determination and self-imposed drudgery and entrapment. On the lathe I build continuous-profile self-portraits, inspired by Renato Bertelli's 1934 "Continuous Profile of Mussolini," playfully invoking the narcissism inherent in the American ideology of self-reliance, and the exhaustion of its constant maintenance. Exhibited at Vox Populi Gallery, Philadelphia PA (pictured at left) and the Mildred Complex(ity), Mildred's Lane, Narrowsburg NY.

Photo credit: Neighboring States Photography, Sara Smith. Video credit: Sara Smith, Zach Ellis. Video shot at Vox Populi Gallery (Philadelphia) and The Mildred Complex(ity) (Narrowsburg NY)