No Moshing (2018)

Laser-Etched Linocut
12” x 18”

“NO MOSHING, CROWD SURFING, OR AGGRESSIVE ANTICS.” These posted rules can often be spotted at music festivals and venues. Unfortunately, people tend to take legal action over injuries sustained by engaging in moshing or crowd surfing, causing many promoters and venues to ban these activities entirely. One of the least understood styles of dance is moshing, derived from head-banging and skanking. What is even less understood is the unwritten code of conduct for those engaging in these activities, protecting participants and creating a community. When viewing this piece with the naked eye, the most prominent text displays common posted rules of festivals and venues printed in red. However, when viewed through the red acetate, the prominent text disappears and the unwritten code of the participants, printed in cyan, becomes legible. The purpose of this piece is to bring the misconception of violent metal-heads to rest and remind viewers to look closer before writing off a different culture based on first impressions.