The Uniformed States of America explores the commodification of military surplus garments, examining how items once used in warfare have become symbols within American consumer culture. These garments, designed initially for survival on the battlefield, now carry new meanings as they are bought, sold, and worn in everyday life. They reflect a complex narrative of national identity, nostalgia, and militarization that continues to shape American society.

Through documenting military surplus stores, I capture more than just the physical items, I explore how these spaces reflect cultural tensions. For some, these garments represent patriotism, solidarity, or a connection to an idealized past. For others, they raise questions about the militarization of civilian life and the systems of power they symbolize. The presence of military and police memorabilia in these stores can evoke a sense of pride for some. In contrast, for others, it stirs discomfort and raises critical questions about authority and power.​

The Uniformed States of America invites viewers to question the more profound cultural and ideological implications of wearing and consuming military surplus. These items, now symbols of both reverence and critique, challenge us to reflect on the evolving relationship between consumerism, militarization, and American identity.

More About Matthew Troyer 

Matthew Troyer (b. 1988) is an American artist, educator, and former U.S. Marine Corps Combat Photographer. Specializing in documentary photography, Troyer critically examines the lasting impact of war on individuals, communities, and culture. Drawing on his experiences as a veteran, his work explores the intersections of war, memory, identity, and consumer culture, using a multifaceted approach to explore narratives that shape America's understanding of conflict and its legacy.

Troyer received his BFA, with honors, in Photography and Imaging from Ringling College of Art and Design in 2022 and an MFA in Studio Art from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2024. He is currently a Part-Time Lecturer at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

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