WATER PAVILION
A playful pop-up saturated with serious undertones.
The Water Pavilion is one of two pavilions constructed by Synecdoche for the 2016 POP-X exhibition in downtown Ann Arbor, MI. Communicating two different situations, The Water Pavilion is made up of water balloons and emergency water ration bags.
Water balloons, an icon of summertime fun and a momentarily expendable resource, are a jovial depiction of fortunate stability and care-free living. In contrast, comprised of almost identical quantities and materials, hosts an aggregate of emergency water rations. These bags of water are life sustaining, and are how many have to relate to water in their day-to-day lives.
A back-drop to the public activities of POP-X, the juxtaposition of vessels offer up a moment of reflection, contemplation, and a possible spark of discourse among guests.
The aggregate quality of materials will also allow for possible surprising transformations throughout the week. Will some objects disappear to quench someone’s thirst, or possibly for a spontaneous balloon fight in a public space?
The socio-economic reality of Michigan in the previous decades has frequently manifested in crisis revolving around water. While the media coverage of these emergencies makes them apparent to us all, the discrete hazardous conditions which impact certain people’s daily lives are all but ubiquitous. More often than not, communities that are already economically distressed are getting the short end of the stick.
Recently, the water crisis in Flint, MI has led us as a State to face the challenges associated with disparities in water quality and access. Corrosive water from the Flint River was pumped through the city’s water lines causing lead and other toxins to be swept into the drinking supply. Residents were/are being required to filter their drinking water extensively and many were relegated to using bottled or pre-packaged emergency rations for a source of potable water.
The Water Pavilion, with its partner installation The Pub Pavilion, serves as a reminder of the water condition to everyone and hopes to spur on moments of deep contemplation and lively discussions.
