The Huminal
The Huminal is designed to question the relationship between humans and the other. In a dimly-lit space, an animalistic humanoid robot paces back and forth in front of the entrance to a fiery red cave. It’s a sentry protecting its lair. When the Huminal “senses” an intruder in the space, it stops and turns its head and glows red, voicing its displeasure, fear and aggression. The viewer is then forced to respond to this challenge, deciding whether to heed the warnings of a being of unknown power and back off, or confront the Huminal as an artwork to be examined and understood. Upon inspection, familiar materials reveal a second ambiguous relationship. The Huminal and cave are built from discarded plastic water bottles and plastic bags; the bringer of life and the polluter of land. We made this angry environment where we are not welcome.