04.Make an Offer
Photography / Installation
2026, ongoing
Details:
Six framed photographs,
two wall-mounted reading shelves,
printed texts
I often find myself fascinated by the iron gates and window grilles on homes in San Francisco. Usually installed in front of ordinary doors and windows, they provide an additional layer of security. I photographed these gates while they were still in use.
The installation presents the photographs with an invitation: “You may make an offer for any of the gates pictured here.” The gates belong to other people. I do not know their owners and have not obtained their permission to sell. If someone makes an offer, I will take it to the residents and owners and ask whether they are willing to sell. The price and terms will be negotiated with them. Payment for the gate will go directly to the owner; I will receive no money from that sale.
An offer may form in the exhibition before the person living behind the gate has considered selling it. I will bring that offer to their doorstep, along with my own wish to complete the work. What price would make someone willing to part with a gate that is still in use?
When the artwork is first sold, I will offer the households pictured an amount equal to its sale price, divided equally among them and paid from my own funds. Each household can choose the money or a letter from me apologizing for including their home in the exhibition without asking first. I have a budget for this and will agree on the final sale price privately with the collector. This payment applies only to the first sale.
House numbers will be obscured in all exhibited photographs. Records of any exchanges with residents and owners will be shared only with their consent.