Photograph: Standard range target, Permanent marker, Glock 43, 9 mm pistol.
To learn more about Cockayne Syndrome and how you can help, please visit Share and Care Network (US) or Amy and Friends (UK) for more information.
I’ve been thinking about art and media. With all the talk of gun control in the news lately, it’s hard to avoid the question: To what extent are artists influenced by political agendas?
I know my choice to use a gun in this piece may set people off, but that’s a risk I’m willing to take. February 1st will mark 2 years since my little boy was killed by mutated genes.
Many artists have used controversial imagery in the name of social justice or progressive ideals. But that’s not what I’m doing.
The target is the canvas. Bullets are the medium. Shooting is the process.
No liberal agenda here. No conservative agenda, either.
It’s an accurate reflection of my feelings about Cockayne Syndrome and what it did to my son.
And what it’s doing to children all over the world that I love deeply.
There were no other materials that could’ve made this image as powerful. As accurate.
Honestly, it felt good to shoot up the name of this disease.
I drew my gun to draw my pain with bullets, to process the agonizing loss of my son.
What about political agendas in the arts?
I’m confident those truly devoted to freedom in the arts and progressive ideals will understand my process and embrace the way in which I choose to express myself.
Dear Scarlett – it would be a wonderful disease to eliminate … I hope a cure can be found … with thoughts – Hilary
Thank you, Hilary <3
Spot on , my sweet friend. I make another target for you. I’ll bring you bullets. I’ll help you shoot. Eloquent.
Thank you, my friend, I appreciate you so much. <3