Desiccated hydrogel and mica flakes, 120 x 55 x 55cm.
This piece references the Mica Housing scandal and how dreams that are built to last can be easily eroded. As has been documented, mica was used as a bulking agent in concrete and its unintended disintegration has led to tragic and disastrous effect. In Dream House, the mica produces a shimmering unreal surface and entry is impossible. The house is made from a mixture of edible gels which are adapted for use in paper conservation, here they have been loaded with mica and desiccated to create a rigid structure. However, if exposed to the elements it will invariable turn to a pile of mush, a bit like the magic pumpkin in Cinderella.
