I think we’ve seen our fair share of bizarre Steve Jobs action figures over the months since the CEO of Apple passed away. Jobs was recently cast as a wax figure as well. The new figure has surfaced, created by an artist going by the name XVALA, that started life as a discarded MIC Gadget Steve Jobs action figure. Those action figures were killed by that Apple legal team.
The artist takes the action figure and coats it in a patented plastic porcelain mixture. Some of the plastic in the special porcelain mixture is made from recycled resin created using Steve Jobs’ residential trash. The artist claims that he collected the trash from Steve Jobs’ home a few months before he passed away.
The Artistic Process and Materials
The process of creating these sculptures is quite intricate. The artist, XVALA, meticulously collects materials that have a direct connection to Steve Jobs, adding a layer of authenticity and intrigue to the artwork. The use of recycled resin from Jobs’ residential trash is particularly noteworthy. This resin is combined with a patented plastic porcelain mixture, which gives the sculpture its unique texture and finish. The choice of materials not only adds a personal touch but also raises questions about privacy and the boundaries of art.
There are white versions of the sculpture and a black version of the sculpture with a white designed for mass production. The black version is supposed to bring attention to the suicides at Foxconn factories. The owner of the gallery where the sculptures are being displayed says that they will move forward with or without Apple approval.
Social Commentary and Public Reaction
The black version of the sculpture serves as a poignant social commentary. By highlighting the suicides at Foxconn factories, where many Apple products are manufactured, the artist aims to draw attention to the often-overlooked human cost of mass production. This aspect of the artwork adds a layer of depth and relevance, making it more than just a tribute to Steve Jobs. It becomes a conversation starter about the ethical implications of consumer electronics and the labor practices behind them.
Public reaction to these sculptures has been mixed. While some appreciate the artistic ingenuity and the thought-provoking message, others find the use of Jobs’ trash to be in poor taste. The controversy surrounding the sculptures has only added to their allure, making them a hot topic in both art and tech circles. The gallery owner has stated that they will proceed with the display, regardless of whether they receive approval from Apple. This defiant stance further fuels the debate about the role of art in society and its power to challenge corporate giants.
The Steve Jobs action figure sculptures by XVALA are a fascinating blend of art, social commentary, and controversy. By using materials directly linked to Jobs and addressing serious issues like labor practices, the artist has created pieces that are both visually striking and intellectually stimulating. Whether you view them as a tribute or a critique, there’s no denying that these sculptures have captured the public’s imagination and sparked important conversations.
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