Drawing of Severed Turkey Foot 1987

Curator: Colin Self created this work, "Drawing of Severed Turkey Foot," in 1987. The dimensions of the support are 562 by 344 millimeters. Editor: It's unsettling, that stark contrast between the delicate rendering of the plants and the graphic depiction of the foot and knife. Curator: Self was deeply engaged with societal issues; he made the drawing at a time of growing concern about food production and its consequences. The turkey foot represents industrial farming practices. Editor: The artist uses a limited palette, focusing on line and form. I appreciate the texture he builds with simple strokes. The negative space is equally important, drawing the eye to the starkness of the central image. Curator: Considering Self’s broader oeuvre, this piece fits into his critique of mass consumption and the alienation it produces. He uses mundane materials to create a work loaded with meaning. Editor: The composition and symbolism leave a lingering sense of unease. Curator: A powerful reminder of the systems behind the food we eat.