Valley Art Exhibit Honors the Unsung Heroes of Presidential Aspirations

PHOENIX — A unique art installation titled “The Monument to the Unelected” is currently showcased in the Coronado neighborhood of Phoenix. It can be viewed near 7th Street and Thomas Road until the first week of December.

In a yard filled with campaign signs, only one candidate is actively running for office in 2024, while the rest are a nod to past elections.

“All of these people actually existed. All of these people lost,” noted Carrie Tovar, Registrar and Collections Manager at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA).

This installation is created by artist Nina Katchadourian and was initially introduced during SMoCA’s 10th Anniversary exhibition in 2008. The artwork references the history of unsuccessful electoral candidates throughout American history.

“(Katchadourian) envisioned creating an artwork that represents all of the failed past elections in American history,” Tovar explained.

Featuring contemporary signs, the installation includes a representation of each losing presidential candidate. The timeline of candidates dates back to the nation’s founding.

“It’s not meant to be political. It’s apolitical,” Tovar emphasized. “It’s factual in a really whimsical and playful way.”

The original installation gained popularity on a Valley street corner and has been brought back every election cycle since, with a new sign added each time. Currently, all 58 signs are displayed in Tovar’s front yard, attracting hundreds of visitors.

“(Visitors) spend a lot of time reminiscing about elections they witnessed or participated in,” Tovar remarked. “It also garners a lot of Google searching… adding an educational element to it which is really fun.”

Although each sign represents actual candidates, the slogans and designs are entirely fabricated by Katchadourian. “All of the slogans are made up by her,” Tovar added.

The installation offers a whimsical perspective on what could have defined the American presidential lineage. Tovar suggested that it represents a part of American history, showcasing resilience in the democratic process.

Following the 2024 presidential election results, SMoCA plans to host a sign placement ceremony, inviting a first-time voter to add the newest unelected candidate to the collection.

This thought-provoking installation remains open for public viewing through early December, offering a moment of reflection on the electoral process.