Utopian Benches

Francis Cape’s Utopian Benches is an installation of 17 poplar benches precisely replicated from existing benches crafted by American communal societies.

Their form and design closely reflect their use within the specific community and, by extension, their organizational structure and collective values. Of this work, Cape has proposed, “material culture reflects social structure.”

Utopian Benches recognizes these reductive, proto-modern seats as cultural equalizers and essential components in the creation of nonhierarchical spaces for conversation and communion, be it religious, political, or otherwise. Their arrangement creates an egalitarian field that levels proscenium divisions; here there is no stage or audience – we sit together.

In siting these benches in a gallery context, Cape reflects on the legacy of their communal histories and origin, and establishes a place for dialogue, in support of new forms of exchange. Throughout the exhibition, the Walter and McBean Galleries and Utopian Benches will offer shared seating for formal and informal programs, both for the immediate San Francisco Art Institute community and diverse community groups. In this way, a connection is forged between the intent of the benches and catalyzing ongoing communal and collective activities in the Bay Area.

until March 15, 2014
Francis Cape
Utopian Benches
Walter and McBean Galleries
800 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, California