I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States, this exhibition presents a cohesive body of meticulously crafted sculptural faux FIREWORK constructions with hand painted labels on each piece by Scott Teplin. The “fireworks” are to be presented in a small stand made to resemble a seasonal roadside stand one might drive past in late June/early July somewhere in rural America.The collection offers a unique visual perspective on the meaning of a national celebration in light of our current political climate. 

II. STRATEGIC TIMELINESS: AMERICA 250

This exhibition is specifically curated to serve as a flagship component of the museum’s 2026 programming. The work provides an evocative centerpiece for July 4th festivities, offering both a fun and meditative space that may complement the region’s own celebrations while drawing interest from local media and anniversary-related publications.

III. THE WORK

The centerpiece of the exhibition is the "fake fireworks" series: a group of 50-75 highly detailed (and often humorous) works including:

• Sculptural Constructions: Meticulously fabricated objects that interpret internationally-made consumer fireworks used by Americans to celebrate the 4th of July. Each sculpture (sizes range from ½” x 2” x 3” to 8” x 8” x 12”) sits on a shelf of a mock-roadside fireworks stand as if for sale.

• Large-Scale Drawings: Additional large watercolor drawings (sizes range from 22” x 30”, 50” x 50”, 70” x 50”act as “posters” - meant to mimic advertising a roadside stand might incorporate, wall space permitting

• Artist Books: A 16 page editioned “Bang On!”(200 copies from Kayrock in Brooklyn, in production expected to finish in late January 2026) 9” x 12” silkscreen book of labels as well as a smaller 5.5” x 9” catalog (click for PDF view) of most of the fireworks on display in the exhibition to hand out to visitors. Finally, a one-of-a-kind artist book made from explosions and smoke.

IV. INSTITUTIONAL & AUDIENCE BENEFIT

• Proven Pedigree: Scott Teplin’s work, created over the last 30+ years, is held in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the Smithsonian Institution, and the New Museum and many others.

• Broad Appeal: The spectacle of the Fourth of July ensures high inter-generational attendance during the peak summer tourism window.

• Turn-Key Excellence: The exhibition will be professionally crated, fully documented, and ready for transit. It requires minimal specialized installation, allowing the museum to focus its resources on anniversary events.

V. LOGISTICS & AVAILABILITY

Inventory: 50–100 total works, comprising framed drawings and self-standing sculptural objects.

Installation & Space Requirements:

• Footprint: Flexible configuration. Requires a minimum footprint of 60” x 70” (approx. 30 sq. ft.), though a space of 165” x 150” (approx. 172 sq. ft.) is ideal.

• Ceiling Height: 14’ ceilings are recommended to accommodate the verticality of the installation.

• Display Structure: The central component is a "roadside fireworks stand" designed to house the sculptural works. This structure is aesthetically utilitarian (plywood construction), measures 70” x 30” x 85”, and features integrated lighting. Magnetic mounts will be used for installing works on paper on the surrounding wall. Larger sculptures may be displayed on individual pedestals.

• Framing: Variable/optional based on budgetary constraints.

Logistics & Shipping:

• Cost Efficiency: The exhibition is designed to minimize transit costs. The majority of sculptural works are compact and constructed from heavy and durable paperboard, allowing for inexpensive boxed shipping.

• On-Site Fabrication: The "roadside stand" display is designed to be built on-site by gallery personnel using locally sourced standard lumber (plans will be provided), eliminating the need to crate and ship large items.

• Delivery: Personal delivery and installation assistance is available for most East Coast institutions to further reduce costs.

Support: A comprehensive digital press kit, high-resolution images, and a detailed checklist are available upon request.

Artist Honorarium: $5,000 – $10,000 (Sliding scale based on institution size/budget; negotiable).

VI. SUMMARY

Small exhibition with variable dimensions, consisting of a wooden fireworks stand against a wall with small handmade faux fireworks displayed in the stand as if for sale. Presentation will be decorated as a roadside stand with surrounding walls that can be adorned with several original 50” x 50” drawings that “act” as if advertising for the fireworks that are “for sale” in the stand. Two limited edition (25 each) hand-pulled silkscreen prints can be made available for sale in the gift shop of the venue.