The Locksmithing Institute of Keys that Fit, Oakland, CA, August, 2005
This piece was done in the an artist space and gallery (Keys that Fit) that used to be a locksmithing store. By examining the pattern of a key I taught people how to decode its spaces and depths to determine its corresponding code (an alpha-numeric sequence that when translated provides its pertinent information). Special thanks for Chris Woodcock for taking photographs. Curated by Matt Volla. Full lesson plan below:
The Locksmithing Institute of Keys that Fit
Lesson #3: Code VS Decode
In Lesson #3 students will be taught how to examine the pattern of a key and decode its spaces and depths to determine its corresponding key-code (an alpha-numeric sequence that when translated provides the keys specific shape). The key itself is only a symbol of a larger embedded set of meanings. It represents a system and structure that is much bigger than the simple piece of metal that it is composed of. For the most part, this structure is completely invisible but effects all of our abilities to gain or be denied access to spaces that compose our daily lives.
The faculty and staff of The Locksmithing Institute have noticed that the hidden structures codified within a key are symbolically mirrored within the institutions that rely upon our participation to create systems of safety, security, and authority. We can not “see” the inner workings of these systems but we experience the reality of their existence every time we successfully or unsuccessfully use a key to unlock a door or are denied entrance. Usually a locksmith starts with a “key code” and then uses that information to cut a new key to factory specifications. By working backwards and examining the shape of key to determine what key code it represents, students learn that the hidden world of institutionalized information is not only possible to comprehend but is also quite simple to decode and utilize to gain access on their own terms. Although students will simply be taught how to decode an old key, determine its key-code, and then cut a new key to factory specifications, the faculty and staff think this may have broader implications for future lessons of The Locksmithing Institute.
