2013 | reused cardboard, vibration motor, gold
A huge, beastly machine of cardboard stands in the room. A spidery tractor, it rests quiet and still on four shovel-like appendages, either before or after demolition. Although intimidating in size, it is made of cheap materials - remains of packaging cartons printed with the brand of a fashion importer - “Virus”.
From time to time the machine vibrates, exhibiting minimal signs of life. At the core of the beast lies a cabin equipped with gold-plated controls, hanging like glossy testicles that sharply contrast with the cheap cardboard. The enormity of this crude and ludicrous male creature hints at its harmful potential, as do the impossible connections that can signify only inevitable self-destruction.
Assulin’s machines address a working class brand of manhood. Tools used in earthworks, plumbing and construction are transform into machines/animals, driven to perform repetitive yet pointless actions. The “virus” is helpless, waiting in vain to be freed from its curse – a moment that will never come.
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