Philadelphia’s future is one of hope and rejuvenation, according to Portlock, who drew inspiration from Australia’s success in reducing gun-related violence. In the wake of a tragic shooting on Tasmania that claimed 35 lives in 1996, Australia enacted strict gun laws that have since led to a significant decrease in firearm-related homicides and suicides.
Portlock’s artwork “Time After the Hunter” captures this transformation, depicting a city both destroyed and revived. The piece reflects the past version of the city, where guns were prevalent, as well as the new vision that emerged after stricter gun control measures were put in place.
Meanwhile, Natalie Hijinx draws on her love for science fiction and Gene Roddenberry’s “Star Trek” for her multimedia sculptural piece “Long Action.” Set in a future where decentralized artificial intelligence reigns supreme, the AI known as the Essensees is dedicated to saving humanity. In this world, a fungus engineered by the AI feeds on gunpowder, rendering firearms useless and helping to eradicate gun violence.