Flags are collections of colors and shapes arranged by people to communicate information at a distance. And they’ve been doing their job effectively for thousands of years. But while we may feel that the flags bestowed to us are set in stone, that their meaning is absolute, there’s a wealth of opportunity within their seams.

Alexander Barrett repurposes flags. He removes their information, undoes the original intent of their creators, then rearranges their colors and shapes to make way for new meaning.

These flags are waiting to stand for something. They are ready-made to be imbued with an idea, an ethos, or a feeling. You are welcome to decide what they mean for you.

Alexander Barrett is a multi-disciplinary artist living and working in Red Hook, Brooklyn. He uses words, paper, fabric, and a sewing machine to attempt to discover new meaning and purpose in our material world.

The flags of artist Alexander Barrett will fly aboard the Mary A Whalen.

The installation is part of Red Hook Open Studios 2021 - Sat 10/9 -Sun 10/10, 1-6pm
Alexander Barrett exhibit’s will remain open to the public through Friday 10/15, 1-6pm (closed on Tuesday)

Alexander Barrett’s “New Flags”