Benjamin Nicol

My work explores class culture theory and capitalist structures of being, using industrial construction materials I draw on my background growing up on and around building sites and workshops. My research involves moving sculptures, which often enact some form of violent performance, critiquing wealth disparity and the current political environment of Aotearoa and the wider world. The sculptures create surreal moments where the viewer is invited to participate in the work, making them another cog in the machines.
With this project, I ask the viewer to consider and explore the illusion of choice we have in participating in capitalist and consumerist systems.