IT'S ART - BUT IS IT IN GOOD TASTE?

Yesterday IPKAT posted its thoughts on a meeting at the ICA at which there was some discussion as to the unsuitability of copyright as a means of protecting some modern art forms, for example conceptual art. the problem of what constitutes an "artistic work" is tricky and will not go away. Thirty years ago the Tate Gallery's purchase of Carl Andre's Equivalent VIII caused a storm, with many critics asking why public money had been spent on a pile of bricks. But now 24 year old Londoner Dave Ball has used 10,500 pink wafer biscuits to copy the infamous exhibit for an exhibition called The Joy of Kitsch at Carmarthen's Oriel Myrddin Gallery. Ball is one of 19 artists from across Europe putting their talents on show, though whether his is an original talent or an infringing one remains to be seen.

Gallery manager Rolande Thomas said it could prove tricky to ensure the work stays intact. "We are not too worried about anyone eating it," he said. "But he has left us some spares in case a mouse gets in and takes a nibble. "I'm more worried about people accidentally kicking it with their feet."

Says Ball: "I don't actually like pink wafer biscuits so I haven't been tempted to eat any along the way. As long as it brings a smile to people's faces then I think it will be a success. It is not intended as a satirical stab at minimalist art - its aim is more philosophical than that".

For details of the historical city of Carmarthen and its surrounding area click here. To view Carl Andre’s Equivalent VIII click here. Read about Carl Andre here. Buy your Nibble Mouse here. Pink wafer data here.