close-up

video animation, 2018

2m 28s

Close-up invites viewers to take a closer examination at the principles American patriotism often champions, by juxtaposing a comforting vintage declaration of ideals with a jarring reminder of ever recurring violence and bigotry. The ugliness of America did not originate or terminate with the Trump era, but we certainly spent a lot of time ruminating over what defines America during that time.

We as Americans are so certain of our liberties, but what happens when we ask ourselves more critically whether or not we operate in tune to the ideals we claim to pedestal?