As an artist, with an interest in sociology, I primarily focus on awareness, interactivity, and social change. The study of sociology is an integral part of my work as I always strive to engage the community regarding public concerns. In addition, I believe in creating the platform for the viewer/user to have an experience which hopefully allows them to see things from a new perspective.
Death Receptionist is an experiential role playing game. My motivation for this project is mostly personal. I have always wanted to create a work that reflected the wide range of emotions being experienced at my 'day job' as a veterinary receptionist in a 24 hour emergency hospital. For me it made the most sense to create a role playing game so that players would be able to experience things firsthand. Every other alternative seemed to dramatically downplay the seriousness of the decisions that must be made regarding lives and regarding money.
The reception lobby in the gallery was created with stage props. It was important to me that people were not only able to play the game in the gallery space, but that a stage was created to promote awareness regarding the complexity of the emotionally charged decisions. I want to encourage a more careful consideration of pet ownership.
For the audience, I am hoping the game offers some insight. I would be delighted if participants walked away with more questions than when they came in to play. Perhaps a discussion will spark about the legality and morality of euthanasia based on financial decisions, or perhaps people will begin talking about what it means to watch a close family member battle with terminal illness, or perhaps there will be a conversation about the financial situation 99% of all Americans face. I am hoping this game sets the stage for a new conversation – one you may not have had otherwise. For me, I am hoping this will add closure to a chapter in my life.
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