Jessica Murtagh

Self-checkout of Sisyphus 2023
Blown glass, sand carved and engraved

Artist statement:

Much like Sisyphus, the self-checkout lane has become an eternity of futile labour as a form of hideous punishment. A modern and common scene played out in supermarkets, the dreaded "unexpected item in bagging area" flashes on screens across the globe - much to the consternation of all involved. While a source of fury for many, it is these mundane moments that are some of the great levellers of society. These are the small experiences we all face, understand and can commiserate with our fellow man over. It's moments like these that one can't help feeling united in our collective irritation.