MFA Thesis Show "Total Absorption"
Tufts University Art Gallery @ the Aidekman Arts Center, 40 Talbot Ave, Medford, MA
May 2–19, 2013
Opening Reception: May 2, 5:30–8:30 pm; Artists' talk, 5–6 pm

Paul Ishii's Feel free is a collection of brochures that exploits the language and structure of self-help brochures found in health facilities and counseling centers to confront the unusual process of understanding and living with certain disorders, illnesses and/or conditions. He explores the concept that various cultures have different attitudes toward human abnormalities and illnesses; a negative, unwanted condition in one particular culture may be dismissed, beautified or considered wholesome in another culture.

Ishii is a non-resident alien from Japan who thought he would become a painting professor at a small college. He trusts learning from mistakes, especially mistakes made by children, and from thinking too much.

Image: Paul Ishii, Feel free, 2013. Brochures. 8.5" x 3.7" each.