exslothsted

This tiny wooden coffin, dated 1875, holds the remains of a coal miner’s companion, a canary named “Little Joe.” Inscription reads, “In Memory of Little Joe, Died November 3rd, 1875.”

Back in the 19th century, canaries were more than just songbirds, they were early warning systems for deadly gases like carbon monoxide in coal mines. Their delicate respiratory systems meant they’d show signs of distress before the gas affected humans. If the canary grew ill or died, miners knew to evacuate immediately.

The practice was especially widespread in the United Kingdom during the Industrial Revolution, when coal mining powered nations, but at grave risks to workers.

Ask yourself, how does this piece make you feel? (No wrong answers)

Look for an artist statement nearby. What does it say about the artist and their relationship to their work? What does the artist say that they are trying to convey with their art? What contextual clues can you pick up from what they say about their background, or what they omit?

Look at the title of the piece. What is the artist saying about their work by naming it that, either explicitly or implicitly?

Look at the medium. Is there anything about the piece that stands out to you, knowing what it's made of?

Look at the year it was made. What cultural events might have been happening around this time? Was this piece part of a particular art movement? What was the purpose of that art movement, and what was it trying to say?

you can and Should engage for a moment with a piece! actually look at it! give it some thought!

art is a two-way conversation between the dumb shit i drew and your thoughts in your head!!!!! that's the whole point !!!!!!!!!!