The Art of Conversation is a one-of-a-kind 48-panel installation exploring the relationship between language, identity, and human connection through American Sign Language and written English.
The Art of Conversation — ASL Artist Statement
Jon Savage • 2018 • ASL with English subtitles
About the book: The Art of Conversation was also published as an artist book in 2018. The edition is now sold out and is shown in this original video as part of the project’s history.
Each panel integrates ASL handshapes with printed English, forming a visual dialogue that reflects the lived experience of bilingualism within the Deaf community. Language is layered and fluid, inviting viewers to interpret meaning through their own perspective.
Color serves as an emotional framework. Eight distinct colors represent mood—happiness, excitement, passion, love, loyalty, intuition, calm, and freshness. Every artwork contains three of these colors, distributed across form, stripes, and background, creating subtle shifts in tone and interpretation.
The horizontal stripe motif connects all 48 works, symbolizing continuity and rhythm across the entire system. Individually, each panel holds its own presence. Together, they function as a unified visual language.
Text and handshape provide structure, but meaning is not fixed. Viewers are encouraged to observe closely, reflect, and engage. Interpretation becomes participation.
The Art of Conversation is not about delivering a single message. It is about dialogue—between languages, between identities, and between people.
Title: The Art of Conversation
Year: 2018
Medium: Spray paint and printed rice paper on wood panels
Dimensions: 48 panels, 18 × 18 inches each
Edition: Unique, one-of-a-kind installation
Available for acquisition only as the complete 48-panel installation.
The individual panels are not offered separately.
The Art of Conversation was featured in The Space Between Words at UC San Diego Park & Market, July 8–September 30, 2026.
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To use this feature, Just look for the "Live Preview AR" button when viewing any piece of art on this website!
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