Ways & Means

Ways & Means is an iterative artwork that defines democracy through shared values. It reclaims the flag as a platform for reflection, dialogue, and civic participation rather than a symbol of politicized nationalism. Designed by Chicago-based artist Bob Faust, the project consists of 12 transparent, double-layered flags, each of which carries a pair of tenets that reflect Faust’s vision of a more inclusive American “we.” Layered upon 13 translucent stripes, the flags are composed through typography, color and scale inviting new interpretations of the national symbol.

SPACE proudly flies a new singular flag outside our Congress Street home that sews and unites the 12 designs into one. Look for additional activations around Portland with the Ways & Means flags during this installation.

Organized around the “ways” forward and the “means” by which to get there, the project is shaped by place and situation and as such, shapeshifts its form to meet them. Whether experienced as an installation, performance or simply distributed en masse as thousands of free(dom) flags, bandanas and stickers, Ways & Means is always about recognizing each other’s humanity and our enormous potential when we uphold democracy together.

Joyfully made possible by Good Chaos and Johalla Projects. Photograph of a Ways & Means flag activation at the Iowa State Fair.