Event:
As part of the reopening exhibition of the fine arts gallery GallerY' at the Free University of Brussels (VUB), performance artist Merlin Spie and Foton present their hybrid performance/installation "STRATA". The titel refers to 'stratum', Latin for 'layer' or 'cover'.layer 1: sculptureA wooden trunk containing a polyester sculpture representing a human figure, stands in a long, dark and narrow room. It looks as if the sculpture is imprisoned by the trunk. A hose connected to an oxygen bottle enters the mouth of the cocoonlike sculpture. The visual suggestion of a real human being inside of the cocoon yields a weird impact to the image, generating a slight feeling of oppression.layer 2: soundAlthough it is not immediately clear, the cocoon indeed contains a real person, being Merlin Spie. Through the use of condensor microphones Merlin's breathing and heart beat become audible, and are made into a musical composition by Peter Van Hoesen (Foton). This increases the suggestion of being confronted with a human performer. During the performance the intensity of both respiration and heart beat increases, adding to the feeling of oppression.layer 3: microchoreographyAnother layer is added to the process of bringing life to the sculpture. With the back side of her arms and legs, slightly visible in the cocoon, Merlin performs a microchoreography based on very subtle motions. Here the multileveled form of claustrophobic suffocation reveals itself: a human being sits in a tight cocoon, captured in a tight trunk, standing in a tight room, only being able to breathe artificial oxygen.The performance's different layers and its heavy physical nature create a unique moment in time. Although the near motionlessness of the installation/performance could be interpreted as a metaphor for an oppressing society, the audience is invited to leave rational thought behind and to surrender to the sensory experience.Where:GallerY'Triomflaan/Boulevard du TriompheCampus VUB (Free University of Brussels) - entrance 61050 BrusselsWhen:opening performance: Monday 22.05.2006 - 19:30installation: 22.05.2006 -16.06.2006Entrance: freeConcept: Hans De Man (Foton), Merlin Spie, Peter Van Hoesen (Foton)Performance: Merlin Spie, Peter Van Hoesen (Foton)Technical assistance: Robbe Vaeck - video registration: Alda Snopek"STRATA" is supported by Vlaamse Gemeenschapscommissie (Board of the Flemish Community), Vlaamse Gemeenschap (Flemish Community), Franse Gemeenschap (French Community) and Cedana.