The term “Strategic Plan” originated in the military but since the 70s it has been a staple of every university, liberal arts college, and even small art schools. It functions as a promise for positive change along with improvements for the institution’s immediate future. This body of work is a collection of flags that combines the traditional pomp and circumstance of academia with business nomenclature widely used within the academic industry. 

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The designs of these pennants, sailing burgees and medieval gonfalons are a study of vexillography layered with visual elements from various historical periods. Collected on internet clipart sites, the vernacular imagery points to a hollow vocabulary: "SWOT" for strength, weaknesses, opportunities, threats; "Competitive Landscape"; "Synergy"; "Global Imperative"; "Innovation Catalyst"; "Leadership Workshop"… At a time when an increasing number of small colleges are under financial stress due to a shrinking student population caused by enormous increases in tuition, these art objects stand as reminders of the true ideals of higher education that are at risk.

The accompanying artist’s book, A Catalog of Flags, is designed in the style of a product catalog. Here, the banners are seen within context, in college specific spaces such as faculty offices, dorm rooms, libraries and art studios while the text points to a business logic that is often not applicable to art education. 

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This exhibition and artist’s book was generously supported by a Faculty Research Grant from Tufts University.