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University of Arkansas

Making Sense of Nonsense

Abstract

dc:description.abstract

<p>A paradox of simultaneous sincerity and humor, Making Sense of Nonsense attempts to identify deficient systems upon which we rely daily. Systems of logic, text, and visual language are all rife with flaws solely because their source--humankind--is irrevocably bound to error. This is not to say that these systems cannot be improved; on the contrary, a rigorous investigation of these systems allows one insight into their mechanics to the end that one endlessly questions the very foundation of the mode of communication being used. Materials and discarded objects such as vintage tools, automotive parts, spray paint, string, furniture, plastic, S&M ephemera, and glitter merge into unsteady structures that hint at new narratives of their functionality, or lack thereof. </p> <p>Questioning realms of visual and verbal language, aesthetics, and functionality are fundamental to this exhibition as they are constantly discussed, edited, and revised by theorists, critics, artists, and the audience. This line of questioning permits my practice to be endless; allowing me to constantly shift and adjust to accommodate contemporaneity. Making Sense of Nonsense recognizes the process of attempting to solve a puzzle that cannot be solved, despite the illusion of resolution, which indicates that the answer is never absolute. Rather, it endlessly evolves. </p>

Degree

thesis:*
Name thesis:degree_name
Master of Fine Arts in Art (MFA)
Level thesis:degree_level
Thesis
Year dc:date.available
2017

Author and committee

dc:creator, dc:contributor.*
Author dc:creator
  • Boales, Parker
Advisor dc:contributor.advisor
  • Springer, Bethany L.
Contributors dc:contributor
  • Cirgin, Benjamin
  • Sytsma, Janine A.

Subjects

dc:subject × 4

Identifiers

dc:identifier.*
Repository record dc:identifier
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/1961
OAI identifier oai:identifier
oai:scholarworks.uark.edu:etd-3500

Chain of custody

source
Harvested from
University of Arkansas
Base URL
scholarworks.uark.edu/do/oai/
Last updated
2026-07-24
Source record
OAI-PMH GetRecord
citation

Boales, Parker. Making Sense of Nonsense. Thesis thesis, 2017. https://scholarworks.uark.edu/etd/1961