The document summarizes and analyzes an art installation called the Prada Marfa store located in Valentine, Texas. The storefront was made of biodegradable materials and began to fade over time. It was later vandalized but then repaired. The author interprets various symbols and meanings behind the location in the middle of nowhere, the use of biodegradable materials, and the later removal of the bottoms of purses and shoes. The author sees the installation as commenting on consumerism, status symbols, and society's willingness to accept things without strong foundations.

1. a pixie romance Analysis by: Ah’livia

2. Do you love shoes & purses?

3. Well ironically… the Prada, Marfa store is located in Valentine, Texas. and…

4. Valentine, Texas is in the middle of nowhere.

5. But Why ?

6. Artists Elmgreen & Dragset, made this art instillation.

7. Degrade & Disappear The store front is made out of biodegradable materials, and was never scheduled for maintenance as the storefront began to fade.

9. stole shoes & purses

10. and spray pained the words…“Dumb” & “Dum Dum”

11. Deviating from the original plan; the building was repaired & restocked. Except this time the bottoms of the purses & shoes were removed and cameras installed.

12. What do you think ?

13. My interpretation Façade Storefront: This could symbolize padlocked exclusivity. The green interior lights hail passing motorists with the illusion of a welcome sign. But upon closer approach one finds the doors sealed closed and there is no one inside to handle purchases. Yet, people continue to gaze upon the green glow (symbolizing money), signage, and products (symbolizing status). Money and prestige are hypnotic.

14. My interpretation Valentine: The location begs the question: Why do so many people adore consumerism? Desolate setting: Similar to the question “If a tree falls and no one is around does it still make a sound?” I ask “If no one is around to acknowledge social rank are symbols of status still valid?” Vanishing act: Using biodegradable materials may symbolize the natural decay in life; including the decay of inanimate objects. All status symbols and empires eventually become outdated and deteriorate.

15. My interpretation Removing the bottom: Aside from the obvious reason of deterring and catching potential thieves I noticed a few unintentional meanings as well. Eliminating the product’s foundations may inadvertently and symbolically represent society’s willingness to accept something as real even if it lacks a strong base as support. Also the instillation of security cameras may represent how people of high social status are supporters of BIG BROTHER. Do people in high social rank find it easier to remove people at the bottom ranks of society as a necessary reason to safeguard themselves?

17. Pictures collected from Google images

18. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PradaMarfa

19. The interpretations were all my own