A Package for Jimmy - Process Piece (Nate C. and Josh R.)

Follow this link: A Package for Jimmy to listen to our audio interpretation/documentation of the process of packing a box for shipment.  Enjoy!

Artist's Statement

The process demonstrated in this audio clip is that of packing a box.  We chose this process because we determined that it would be a compelling auditory experience.  There are many sounds involved in the process that are identifiable as specifically related to making a package, like the sound of packing peanuts, and the sound of a tape gun. Since we didn’t have the advantage of a visual depiction, like many of the examples given in the viewings, we wanted to compile these sounds into a narrative, and give a back-story to the package being constructed, so we included two characters, who are packaging something valuable.  We also wanted to be careful that their commentary didn’t overpower the sounds of the process, but give it clarity, and also inform the listener to what exactly was occurring.  In this way the listener can be sure of what is going on in the clip at all times, despite the lack of visual cues.

This process is actually rather important.  Think of the countless objects that must be packaged and sent to different locations, whether it is somewhere else in the state, to an entirely different country.  The journeys, in all their varieties, can be rough and tumble, and the cares we take to protect the objects will only benefit us in the end.  “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” is especially true when it comes to sending packages, and we wanted to illustrate this in our process.  There are probably people who understand the basic concept behind bubble wrap, or packing peanuts, yet have never made up a package in their life, since there are entire stores devoted to doing so, and our piece gives attention to this important, and often over-looked process. 

That’s the power behind this type of documentation, is that it can highlight important processes that are under appreciated.  Often we are so concerned about the end product, but like the clip of the factory in China that we watched, it’s good to step back and realize what happens behind the scenes to give us the things that we use in our every day lives. There are many who play a part in making our lives and the comforts we enjoy possible, and this is a way to acknowledge them, and their contributions to society.  So hopefully our somewhat facetious piece can convey some of that depth and meaning.