Disarming a Violent Personal History

This Spring I am participating in Pillsbury United Communities' Art is My Weapon initiative to address violence. Artists in the Minneapolis area were given destroyed weapons to make art with for various exhibitions throughout the year. I was able to find both parts of this handgun and reassemble it temporarily. I have covered it with lace and I will make a mold of it to cast it in ceramic. 

I have a very personal connection to gun violence. My only sister killed herself with her husband's handgun. The details of her death are graphic. What led to her having access to the gun is somewhat unclear, but it was assumed that her husband left the unlocked gun case out for her to shoot herself after a quarrel. 

Since that horrible event, I have wanted to make a work with a handgun, specifically, make a work of its destruction. I was never able to move myself to purchase a gun for such a project. When the opportunity arose with Art is My Weapon, I thought, "this is the time." I didn't think it would be painful to visit this subject after so many years. I am glad I am doing this project because I realize there are so many feelings that I have not dealt with yet. 

Stay tuned for more pictures and info.