David Sleeth's Site/Structure opened with an unframed collage depicting stonewalls surrounding Tell en-Nasbeh, a site northwest of Jerusalem excavated by William Frederic Badè between 1926 and 1935. With a focus on experimental archeology and an interest in sculptural work, Sleeth used lithics (stone tools), iron implements, ceramics, and other small artifacts, as well as original photographs of Tell en-Nasbeh, to create a related series of pen and ink drawings. Also included in the exhibition was a sculptural piece made of wood, carved through the traditional process of burning and scraping, adding a dimension to this compelling study of material, fabrication and object.
"Overall, the idea is to open up the context of the archeology through artistic articulation. I want to create work that alludes to the beautiful qualities I recognize in historical objects without replacing them. Seeing artifacts of the everyday as ‘ready-mades’ awaiting further visual interpretation." – David Sleeth