January 28, 2009
VCU Commons Theater
Background Info on Alix Pearlstein:
Electronic Arts Intermix describing Pearlstein:
“Alix Pearlstein's performance-based videos function as abstract dramas, operating in a realm between the theatrical and the cinematic. With deadpan humor and a minimalist aesthetic, she employs stylized gestures, role-playing and pop cultural references to create narrative meaning, or uses actors to examine group dynamics and social constructs. Exploring performative strategies, these works, often set in an indeterminate void, condense psychological narrative to expose heightened realities.”
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Unfortunately I missed the introduction but that let me jump right into Pearlstein’s work.
The pieces that struck me the most are Distance (2006-2007), and Forsaken(2003).
Distance is a work filmed from opposite sides of the room; Pearlstein used a split screen approach to have her viewers watch the happenings in the large room from both camera angles. The use of large spaces and very minimal props creates a unique and interesting viewing experience. Because there are few objects to focus on in the empty room the cameras and the people recording become apart of the action, as well as what the main focus is, in the middle of the room. Pearlstein’s use of ambiguous sounds/noises and muffled dialog works well to emphasize the abstraction of the natural world, it also leads the viewer to focus on the actions the actors are taking instead of the dialog used. This was very apparent in Forsaken, the use of muffled dialog aided in the surreal aspect of the piece. Cinematically Forsaken was not as interesting as Distance. Distance being one of Pearlstein’s more resent works looks like it was created with the help of a bigger budget. Although Pearlstein sticks with a slightly jostled recording style in Forsaken with the use of cameras tripods on wheels she veered away from hand held recording.
Pearlstein’s works are often abstract representations of happenings and inspirations she takes from social and political occurrences. The abstract nature of the works leaves some viewers puzzled and not as appreciative as others.
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Image From: Distance
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Image From: Forsaken
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I like your writing style. You seem to write with a purpose. If you liked Distance you should really try and find Wavelenght which is what Distance is partially based on. It makes viewing distance even more interesting when you can link the two at times.
ReplyDeleteHassan