Seats of Power
A series of work looking at social structures and hierarchy. Murphy uses the ‘chair’ to illustrate how everyday items are used to confirm and reinforce social hierarchical networks and status. The Beckhams used thrones in their marriage to illustrate pseudo power and regalness. In many offices and workplaces the manager sits on a better chair than members of their team. In institutions from train stations to prisons, chairs are used to convey economic power or subservience rather than comfort. This series of work is made up of 8 paintings and 8 chairs.
