The golden “Fur Coat” by Weld Queen is a piece of interactive public art that is created out of construction rebar and has a royal coat that appears to be wandering by itself through the crowd. In a single piece of art, gold and a fur coat—two of the most prevalent symbols of financial success in contemporary society—symbolically represent “real luxury that is sure to keep you warm” and can be worn on the shoulders.
The longevity of our values is a topic for discussion in light of this display. Is the constant pursuit of excessive luxury — especially in the digital world and on social media sites like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook — a type of behavior that genuinely makes people happy? Is it just a temporary safe refuge allowing to escape from the unsightly parties of the harsh reality?
We cannot, however, dispute that some people enjoy “the tales of a wonderful life,” and that the “Fur Coat” aids everyone in pushing this tale to its logical conclusion. This is true despite all the complaints of the fake online self-representation system.
Combining two conceptually opposed materials — rough construction rebar and “gold coating” — increases the effect of distorting dominant values by highlighting the contradictions between our necessities and wants. A person can “enter” the fur coat, and thus “try on the part of the monarch,” stand out from the crowd, and feel like, if not a king, then at least a superstar, in accordance with the object, which implies direct engagement with the audience.
2018, in public space ownership, Dallas, Texas, USA
Steel. Welding. Painting.
1600 х 1700 х 2700 mm