Our Shrinking World

OUR SHRINKING WORLD
3′ 3″ L x 2′ 4″ W x 2′ 10″ H
Acrylic mirror, aluminum
2009-2023

Normally my work is created for an interior space; however when the opportunity at Chesterwood Sculpture Park presented itself I decided to take up the challenge and create my first outdoor piece, ”Our Shrinking World.” My sculpture reflects the contrast between “The American Dream” and today’s economic crises. Although small in scale, its message is monumental in scope. The surface of the broken acrylic mirror will reflect the beauty of the park, but also challenge the viewer’s state of security and highlight the vulnerability that all of us may feel.

Review: “…June Ahrens built a small house out of mirror shards and set it in the forest. The piece, “Our Shrinking World,’’ is almost invisible from a distance, camouflaged by reflection, and even up close it shimmers with leaves. But despite its beauty, its construction speaks of illusion, sharp edges, and danger.”

Cate McQuaid
Boston Globe

This work traveled from the Chesterwood Sculpture Park to the Berkshire Museum, Pittsfleld, MA for two years. Work is currently on permanent loan at Silvermine Galleries Sculpture Garden, New Canaan, CT.