I

"It's fun to break up the glass. We're doing our thing for ecology and the boys scouts will give us a badge for working here"

Discuss the universal dilemma of mothers as they try to find meaningful activities for their children during summer vacation.

Compare the recycling movement of the 70's with the "green" movement of today.

According to the caption, what is the primary appeal of this task for the three boys?

What are service projects for kids like today? Do many participate in service projects or organizations?  

B

"Before the dissolution of our marriage my husband and I owned a bar. One day a toilet broke and we brought it home"

Discuss whether the suburban lifestyle demands conformity among its citizens, or whether it allows room for non-conformity and idiosyncratic behavior.

What about the woman in the photograph gives us the impression that she might be a little eccentric?

How does this image defy the notion that suburbia is monotonous and "cookie cutter"? Throughout this exhibition, look for the complexities and eccentricities that permeate suburban life.

What do you notice about the particular angle at which Bill Owens photographed his subject? Would the composition have been as effective at another angle?

Does the caption of this image mesh with your idea of suburban life?

What might this image say about the potential for some buyers to purchase a home beyond their means in order to live in the suburbs?

What is the one "luxury" that this family can't seen to live without? What does that say about their priorities and how they spend their leisure time?

In what ways might Bill Owens be subtly commenting on some of the darker facets of suburban life? Might there be aspects of suburban life that are truly empty?