Wise Teeth, 2022

Alchemy, at its essence, is the transformation of the common or undesirable into something precious and valuable. Wise Teeth seeks to question the transformations brought about by bling culture and ostentatious displays of wealth. Grillz- a type of jewellery adorning teeth in diamonds, gold, and other precious materials made popular by urban musicians - can be a powerful celebration of upward mobility, but they can also damage enamel and lead to various health issues. What transformation happens when those born into privilege adopt bling culture? Could it be reversing the alchemic equation by transforming valuable objects (gold, the body, resources both human and natural) into weapons of cultural degradation?

© Anja Guggenheim