Second Time Around: The Hubcap as Art

Originating from the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley, and adapted for travel by ExhibitsUSA, Second Time Around: The Hubcap as Art features thirty-five works created from discarded hubcaps.

The exhibition encourages viewers to think of artists not only as creators, but as creative problem solvers. Objects range in size from one hubcap to a series of objects; some are kinetic and incorporate sound; while others directly reference specific environmental issues. In some cases, the artist responded to the hubcap formally, by focusing on design elements like color, line, shape, and texture in humorous or fanciful ways.

Visitors will experience such works as David Medley’s Hidden Treasures, which is accompanied by a small video monitor showing its sound and motion; or Red Baron by Danish artist Rick Dethlefsen, which re-imagines the Mercedes-Benz symbol as the propeller of a biplane flying directly at the viewer. Other works will showcase great artfulness, including Ireland-born Noel Molloy’s King, Queen and Fool, a three-part, highly polished sculptural work that resembles finely crafted jewelry; or South Africa-based Viv King’s Ndebele Inspiration, a carefully beaded and geometrically patterned design. Questions about the environmental impact of automobiles are raised by Witness, a work by Marla McLean of Maryland, which uses a reflective surface to remind viewers of our involvement with the ecosystem.

Second Time Around inspires viewers to reflect on the role of consumption in American culture and stimulates creative thinking about ways to re-use and recycle.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website