Classical Conditioning

2008 - Steel, Ceramic, Fabric

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This peice was inspired by both a social/psychological experiment carried out in the 1960's, and the social expectations of woman throughout history. The experiment dealt with a subjects willingness to obey authority. If they pressed a button they believed they would send a shock to a participating human subject. This experiment was repeated at another time using a real shock and a real puppy. People obeyed almost unconditionally, with women outnumbering men in their willingness to obey.

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Historically women have been expected to learn accomplishments, act with demure grace and defer all responsibility to men. Those that acted out were socially outcasts, and often sent to convents or mental institutions. This practice continued well into the 1900's in many different countries.

The woman in the sculpture sits at a piano and contemplates pushing a button or taking the great risk of falling out of social conformity.