The teacups titled Consuming Conversation are a variant edition of 200 cups constructed from recycled tin cans from 2001-2003 as a commentary about our consumer society. Each cup has a different product identity. It symbolizes the fact that we go shopping as social interaction and entertainment.

On the top of each cup are words or comments inspired by advertising. Each letter is cut from various tin cans. Tinted resin fills each cup to almost overflowing as if it were filled with "tea", a metaphor for the overabundance in our society.

A concealed rod holds each stack of cups together in a precarious position. A position mirrored in our current economy of overspending and consuming without regard to realistic finances.

Recycled steel "tin containers", sterling silver and brass handles, 10 k. gold rivets. 

2 5/8" height of a cup and saucer
6" diameter of saucer
13" height of stack

Available for purchase or exhibition.

TOP TO BOTTOM:
top cup:  “1025 Hours FREE AOL”
saucer:  “Lambertz" cookies
cup level:  “the wait is over”; 10k gold rivets
            
cup:  “1025 Hours Free AOL”
saucer:  same with silver eagle
cup level:  “The Next Trend Here” cup:  orange with Chinese lettering in red
saucer: orange with crackers and teacup
cup level: “Collector’s Edition Of Tin Cups make a bold choice”

cup:  “Critelli’s ….Extra Virgin Olive Oil”
cup level:  “Does price establish value”; 

bottom cup:  Life Saver candies
saucer:  “Life Savers Candy Canes” 
cup level:  “Save later Buy More More”

The single cup to the side (shown in the top photo) was stolen many years ago when this was in an exhibition.

Photography by Philip Cohen

© Harriete Estel Berman, 2021