Produced during the Breathe Residency at Chinese Arts Centre in Manchester, U.K., the Sorted badge is inspired by British commemoratives. The badge depicts a banner over a rain cloud, which is obscuring a drab rainbow. These symbols suggest the coexistence of gloomy outlooks and vibrant attitudes.

The limited-edition badge is the result of a study of Mancunian slang, temperament and weather. The artist noticed Mancunian inventiveness in the expressions of displeasure, as well as the tendency to downplay enthusiasm.

The artist also observed that the weather is valued as a source of comiseration. Perhaps Mancs employ defensive pessimism, wherein low expectations are more likely to be pleasantly surpassed.

Produced in the Breathe Residency at Chinese Arts Centre.
Learn more about my residency findings and projects:

Images

• Sorted (installation view), 2009, gilt and enamel badge, 1 inch / 25 mm diameter. Edition of 50.
• detail