Laich's new work is a full-size billboard that features an image of a broken down garbage truck in the desert, and the text: "One trillionth of a second, WASTED." Laich, whose last solo exhibition was at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said that his billboard at Caltech is "designed to provoke thought, versus the usual purpose of billboards, which is to sell products and services."
Laich said that he also likes the idea of placing an irrational idea in an environment known for exceedingly rational thought. "How can you waste one trillionth of a second?" said Laich. "It's impossible to even comprehend one trillionth of a second.
"The image of a broken-down garbage truck in the desert also is a comment on how technology eventually breaks down and becomes obsolete. These are general themes, and ultimately the message and imagery are open to interpretation by viewers."
The work will be on view until September 1.
The Caltech Outdoor Art Space is located behind the campus recycling center on South Holliston Avenue between San Pasqual Street and Del Mar Boulevard. Inaugurated in October 1999, the art site utilizes an undeveloped space to allow emerging artists to display innovative large-scale sculptures; environmental, site-specific work; and other projects, and to encourage a dialogue between artists and the community. This exhibit is the eighth since the space opened.
Contact: Robert Tindol (626) 395-631