Jules Perrenot

Thank you, Penang

Thank you, Penang I am a consumer. I embraced it. It’s done. No more guilt. I am defined by my possessions. My reason is enslaved to my passions, and my passions lurk at things. Shiny things, silky things, sturdy things. I feel comfortable when an ATM is at reach. I like free things too. I never have enough money. Thank you, Penang. I’ve had a taste of bliss. Canned food and taxes just seem so far away. Thank you, Penang. You’ve made me frivolous. I don’t think twice as I point my fingers, cash in hands. Thank you, Penang. You’re keeping me high. I can afford your designer drugs and they look just the same. Thank you, Penang. ________ The photographs in this project were produced during a trip to Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia. All materials and items in the images, some obviously designed in North America or Europe, were produced in Asia and purchased on the island of Penang. Less than 500 Malaysian ringgits (120 USD) were spent in total to purchase the set and products. The project explores aspects of globalization. As a privileged tourist, even living as a student, I was able to experience living like the 1%, simply due to the power held with my currency. In this dream-like setting, it is easy to indulge, let go, forgetting the complex socioeconomic factors that enable our consumption global marketing strategies, labor exploitation, exhaustion of resources, social dumping , growing inequalities... To name a few. Pulling inspiration between fashion product and still life photography, my intent was to convey the tension between living in paradise and its consequences. Like the purchased items in the photographs suggest it, I myself had a sip of Penang's bliss. Rather than pointing fingers, I wish for this project to acknowledge this complex global situation and consider a better tomorrow.