A Model for Easter Lily Stem Elongation where y is 41”, 2023, neon, transformers, wire, 41” L x 9” W x 4” D (approximate)
A Model for Cut Rose Stem Elongation where y is 48", 2023, neon, transformers, wire, 48” L x 9” W x 4” D
“For What It's Worth: Value Systems in Art since 1960” at The Warehouse, 2024
“For What It's Worth: Value Systems in Art since 1960” at The Warehouse, 2024
A Model for Chrysanthemum Stem Elongation where y is 52”, 2023, neon, transformers, wire, 52” L x 16” W x 11” D
A Model for Peony Stem Elongation where y is 52” Photography by Nicola Morittu, Courtesy of Labor
Installation shot of Labor's booth for Art Basel 2024, featuring an individual presentation of American artist Jill Magid Photography by Nicola Morittu, Courtesy of Labor

Richards Function

Jill Magid’s neon sculptures depict the mathematical formula of a growth model called the Richards Function, specially devised to maximize the stem length of certain types of flowers, including rose, chrysanthemum, peony, pointsettia and easter lily, and to force blooming for select crops on monetized holidays. Predictive Stem Elongation Model, where y is X, is an equation developed to predict stem elongation of potted flowers during the greenhouse forcing period, which extends from when potted bulbs are moved into greenhouses until they are shipped to market. As flowers are priced according to stem length---the longer the stem, the more expensive the flower--the ability to use the Richards Function to predict stem length at harvest gives growers an advantage for forecasting crop pricing and potential cash flow. Magid's sculptures visualize the overlapping interests of beauty, science, and commerce, and the role that prediction and visualization play in the circulation of value. This series has been exhibited at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Musem and The Warehouse, in addition to a solo exhibition at Art Basel Paris + in Grand Palais.