Material, 2019
– Part of the Inventory series –
☰
This catalogue lists every permanent, physical item in my current household and was mainly inspired by the 'actor-network theory' (ANT). Said theoretical framework analyses social worlds by mapping them as stacked networks populated by (hybrid) actors (human and non-human entities) which can be themselves punctualised networks. Likewise, multiple forms of agency, identities and similar properties are not inherently linked to things but are seen as the output of relation within socio-material networks. Thus, if one creates an overview, an inventory, of a particular analytical frame — in this case, my household — a holistic and close perspective on the selected social world becomes possible. Hence, one can detect the social role of each item and investigate and decipher the meanings and identities saved and conducted via certain objects. Consequently, we can better comprehend why our social world is put together, 'made up' in the way it is. Moreover, the mental gap between individual-level and macro-phenomena like consumerism is bridged. For instance, the entanglement of global trade patterns and private life becomes apparent if one indicates the origin of personal items.
While examining the catalogue, you are able to reveal the picture of an item by hoovering the mouse pointer over its entry. Note however that some images are blurred in order to protect certain personal information.