“Complimentary” is an interactive installation by artist Leah Harper that distributes free compliments through an ordinary toy vending machine. All compliments come from members of the public and can be submitted either on-site or through the artist's website. The person receiving the compliment can choose to keep it, pass it on, or recycle it.
The purpose of the project is to reinvent public space to be more engaging and playful. It does so by creating a platform for interaction and conversation among strangers and by offering a brief uplifting pause to one’s day. It was originally created for Art In Odd Places (AIOP) “FREE" 2014 festival, presenting visual and performance art in unexpected public spaces along 14th Street in Manhattan.
“Complimentary” has garnered local and international media attention since its initial appearance with AiOP. Not only was it featured at Martha Stewart's American Made Summit in November, but it will also be on display at the Hudson River Museum in February 2015. It will continue to dole out compliments in its current home at the Centre for Social Innovation NYC, with occasional appearances at events and other public spaces.
about
THE PROJECT