DicktatorDon

DicktatorDon stands chained to a shelf, this felt fabric effigy is at the mercy of those who want to take their anger out on the person he represents – that being President Donald Trump. A pincushion built into the shelf ensures there is plenty of ammunition to hand as people grab for pins to jab him with. There is often a tweet above his head that reads in the style of Trump with words like SAD and FAKE, insulted that people might want to stab him at all. Reactions range from laughter which is by far, the most common response with people gleefully and enthusiastically jabbing him to great amusement. Some balance him in an inverted position and others jab pins in his eyes. He is certainly under attack. An added dimension to the interaction is that if you happen to jab him in his Y-Fronts his eyes light up. The way the interaction is designed means only a metal pin will work if it is to complete the electronic circuit. Prodding him won’t do it, you literally have to penetrate him with something metal. Perhaps the feedback loop gives way to feelings of empowerment in the participant. However, there are some who choose not to interact, offering up their reasons. Worried that it’s voodoo they are uncomfortable dabbling in that arena. Others state that violence acted upon him by stabbing him with pins is no better than the bullish manner he exhibits to the world. To this end, he is a stand-in for real thing and they see their participation as an act of violence against him. Many express that it was a ‘safe-way’ for them to vent, whilst others believe it was nothing short of what he deserved. Most think it is just very funny.