This digital collage weaves phallic and yonic imagery, combining natural forms with technological elements. The symbolic representations of wealth and opulence, embodied by the pineapple, orchids, and diamonds, suggest a narrative of prosperity and luxury. Whittle's chosen pose adds an additional layer of meaning, hinting at the convergence of liberty and decadence through the advancements in science and technology. Viewed through an Afrofuturist lens, the artwork posits that true freedom might be discovered among the stars, offering an escape from the persistent inequalities on Earth.
The term "Business as usual" is a common phrase used in the business world to signify an "ongoing and unchanging state of affairs despite difficulties or disturbances." In this context, the title of the work refers to routine occurrences where substantial change remains absent. Whittle’s use of the phrase is a playful appropriation and reinterpretation, serving as a commentary on the sluggish and stagnant nature of art institutions. These institutions are often governed by well-intentioned but insufficient commitment to creating genuinely inclusive and diverse spaces within the arts. There seems to be an expectation that society has either progressed beyond histories of colonialism, imperialism, and recent genocidal events or that such uncomfortable issues should be left in the past.
The artist asserts that while there may be moments dedicated to addressing these "difficult" histories or making gestures towards achieving equal representation within institutions and museums, these efforts often come across as superficial, akin to a performance. She envisions a collective effort to become more actively engaged in bringing about institutional change through parrhesia (free speech) and open discussions that prioritize restorative justice, tailored to the needs of various individuals and communities.