All human endeavors conducted in a free and open society result in Issues that stir controversy. For example, the simple act of a child buying an ice cream cone can create heated debates with proponents of the dairy industry being diametrically opposed to health food pundits and child nutritionists. This human propensity for debate, dissent and discourse is at the heart of this project.

The images you will see here are multi layered, controversial and sometimes upsetting to the viewer. The purpose is not to preach but to instill a desire for discourse with those of opposing views, some of whom may be standing right next to you as you visit each image.

Our society uses Icons to provide rallying points around which those of a particular mindset will congregate. Some of the icons I have used, are blatant, some are subtle; none are used for the purpose of being gratuitous. All the images are meant to leave the issue open ended and unresolved. Only you, the viewer, and others with whom you speak, can complete the process the image starts.

In most cases, the image will be left to fend for itself with only the title and a brief statement in support of the artist's intent. Some images however, reflect a certain circumstance that, when known, enhance the power of the image. When this case pertains, you will find a more concise story on the wall next to the image.

The exploration of societal issues and the icons we use to define them is the sole intent of this project. The people that have aided me in this endeavor are as unique and varied as the project itself. In most cases where the image contains people, the person depicted in the image has a real connection to the icons used, either by philosophical connection or by actually having lived the real world issue that is represented. In some cases, models were used to represent humanity in general such as in "Bible Thumping" and "Fear the White Powder". In all cases the person in the image can be assumed to agree only with the concept of the image in which he or she is shown.

In most cases, icons, used to instill a belief in the issue that they represent, should be examined with skepticism. Most icons have different meanings depending on how they are viewed and the life experiences of the viewer. The use of icons immediately makes the creator of the icon suspect as to motive. History is littered with examples of both beneficial and harmful icons. Which is which is up to you to determine.

Bringing your point of view to the gallery and having it interact with art is the heart of the gallery experience. All of these issues and icons have been part of our culture during the lifetime of anyone old enough to see these images without a parent present. Unlike looking at art that is 200 years old, the issues addressed in these images and their associated icons are relevant to modern life despite the fact that most of the issues have been associated with humanity for thousands of years in one form or another.

Please enjoy the images and then discuss them with your fellow visitors. You will find as I have when creating this body of work, that the discussions will frequently surprise you!