FREE LENNIE SMALL

In response to efforts throughout the country to ban books, I continue to create an art series in protest of these initiatives.  Literature of all types is an important freedom for people of all ages to possess I believe.  For me, this is an important issue for people to learn more about and fight for the freedom of literature. 

 

One of the most controversial books in efforts to ban literature is Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck.  This was required reading for me at school, and it was a book that impacted me and my entire class.  It's a book about humanity, society, and those that are mentally disabled.  It's a beautiful story that leaves all readers moved.  It is a book I'll never forget.  In particular, the two main characters George and Lennie are etched into my mind permanently.  Their friendship is so exquisitely told.  Steinbeck proves himself a true master of the English language.  Efforts to ban this book are unfounded and would forfeit the opportunity for readers of all ages to experience this brilliant piece of art for themselves.  Hence, I created this art piece "Free Lennie" to bring awareness to the book and it's struggle to stay on bookshelves.

​

The work is an assemblage of pages from a damaged book that I received, affixed with wheat paste to wood board. Spray paint, oil stick have been added.  It measures 24”x 24.”