untitled (in the beginning was thephoton)/2024
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untitled (in the beginning was the photon)
2024
Betelhem Makonnen w/ Adrian Aguilera
Neon tubing
Texas State University’s Live Oak Hall
2024
Betelhem Makonnen w/ Adrian Aguilera
Neon tubing
Texas State University’s Live Oak Hall
Austin, Texas-based artist duo Betelhem Makonnen and Adrian Aguilera describe their neon artwork, untitled (in the beginning was the photon), as highlighting “the inherent link between light waves (composed of photons) and communication, spotlighting communication’s power to go beyond imparting information to profoundly shaping our perception of the world and ourselves in it.” The artwork is installed on the exterior of Texas State University’s Live Oak Hall, the film and television building. The use of neon script references a long line of minimalist and light artists who have also used this commercial medium in artistic expression.
The work expands on the seminal quote from media theorist, Marshall McLuhan, "the medium is the message." "Whether through print, radio, television or other forms, media plays a crucial role in shaping culture and society."
According to Makonnen and Aguilera,
“In our ever-increasing era of information overload, it is more critical than ever to remember that we have the power to shape media even as it shapes us.”
This work was made in collaboration with fabricators at Neon Jungle, Lucid Art LLC and traditional neon benders at Ricochet Neon.
The work expands on the seminal quote from media theorist, Marshall McLuhan, "the medium is the message." "Whether through print, radio, television or other forms, media plays a crucial role in shaping culture and society."
According to Makonnen and Aguilera,
“In our ever-increasing era of information overload, it is more critical than ever to remember that we have the power to shape media even as it shapes us.”
This work was made in collaboration with fabricators at Neon Jungle, Lucid Art LLC and traditional neon benders at Ricochet Neon.
