My stencil is a responsive to an obvious and immediate problem facing our nation and the world at large. At initial reaction to the piece is predictable, as the concerns over gas prices have been on the lips of ordinary citizens for a time now. Still, the stencil reiterates these concerns, not only redressing the concern over their deflating wallets, but of the American culture and economy. And by culture I mean consumption, since that is what we want and need, even if we end up in a noose for it. The fact that ‘Uncle Sam,’ an American icon for the strength and determination of our country, appears dead signals the dire situation we have put ourselves into. The gas pump noose signifies what has brought about this downfall.

The wording of “NOW WHAT?” is intended to send a message of diminishing hope and direction. The red text color is intended to draw attention by contrast. I also hoped that it would signify the failing of the economy in an oil-dependent state, as red is the color of a failing business. In the post-mortem state of Uncle Sam the text signifies a lack of plan to solve the situation. So far the directives and initiatives have not provided any hope for a viable and sustainable solution, leaving the scarcity of oil as the most dire resource depletion we have. The text should force the audience to assess what they and their government are planning for the future. It should also signify the vulnerability of our future, as so many indicators point to a less prosperous quality of life then than now. This lack of understanding of what our future holds combines with the knowledge of our lack of planning, creating an uneasy feeling with the audience. This fear could drive people to stop and think instead of acting like the problem does not affect them.

I believe this image could be placed effectively pretty much anywhere, even on clothing. It should force a reaction from literally every adult who sees it, and may even drive a child to question the image to their guardians. Still, this image would produce the most shock value if it was placed at gas stations, possibly on the pumps itself or in between pumps, where the front and backs of cars would not cover the image. It would remain in sight and would be the first thing seen as a customer pulled up to the pump. This strategy is difficult due to the blatant vandalism on private property and the video surveillance at nearly every gas station. Still, this image placed on sidewalks, billboards, or buildings will still draw the intended reaction. A favorite place to put this would be on the signs of gas stations themselves or on truck gas tankers, since it draws the direct connection between the resource and our troubled future. For now I’ll stay local and legal.