I like using puppets in my work to reflect about self-determination and control. Tick Tock is about being in control of your own time, which seems to pass and fly at its own will; time is kept but wasted, and always running out.

I constructed the Tick Tock figures from old album covers and game pieces to give them a vibrant and loud appearance and as a nod to their purpose of being entertainers. They are fully articulated jumping jacks, though the strings are not meant to be pulled so their characteristic jerky and quick movements can only be imagined and anticipated. Their stillness is still but at the same time full of suspense as the jumping jacks can only relax until someone takes control.

However, Tick Tock is coming to the viewer with a gift: The figures have clock faces and are ready to tell your personal time. The hours can be chosen to your liking, and time is never up.

I made messenger bags for these clock people, each containing a small tin bird as a reminder to be free as well as a tiny accordion book which stretches out to reveal its message to slow down and be in the moment.

Mixed media assemblage: vintage album covers, vintage game pieces, wooden bits, wire, tooling metal, metal hardware, cotton string, wood beads, waxed cord; for messenger bag: cardstock, sewing thread, leather, vintage paper candy bag, book and magazine clippings, vintage tin bird brooch.

10” x 8” x 1”