Frontier 2020-2022
Textile and Thread
The genesis of each piece lies in a single frame captured from news reports, a snapshot frozen in the liminal space between existence and obliteration – a casino caught in the throes of demolition. From this potent image, I embark on a meticulous deconstruction and reconstruction, employing a methodical approach that echoes the ethos of American patchwork quilting.
Pioneer
Medium: Self-died Textile Dimensions: 200 cm x 300 cm Year: 2012
Las Vegas, renowned for its reliance on spectacle, embarked on this trajectory in the 1950s, shaping its distinctive identity. The city's fascination with the extraordinary took a surreal turn with the commencement of atomic testing in the nearby desert. During this era, casinos transformed into venues for viewing parties, complete with atomic cocktails and beauty pageants for Miss Atomic.
At the heart of "Pioneer" lies a photograph captured from a rooftop during one of these atomic blasts—a moment perpetually encapsulated and commercially circulated as a postcard. This visual relic serves as the foundation for my work, an exploration that delves into the convergence of spectacle, history, and the indelible imprint left by Las Vegas' atomic past.
Middle format slides 2009-2011
Tombolare,
Happening Dec. 4th 2009
Photos courtesy of Katharina Sieverding
Collaborating with fellow artists from Klasse Sieverding, we orchestrated an art raffle in response to the ramifications of the 2008 financial crisis. Artists generously contributed limited series of silkscreen prints, each becoming a unique ticket for the event. On the night of the gathering, the atmosphere echoed the intensity of Wall Street – emotions ran high, and frustration was palpable. Despite the high stakes, each ticket holder received a corresponding artwork, aptly referred to as "Nieten" (losing tickets), adding a nuanced layer to the experience.
Way to Play
Video Excerpts from Way to Play, 2009-2011
Camera: Ben Schkade
Las Vegas bore the brunt of the housing crisis, prompting my visit during the summer of 2009 to document and interview those profoundly affected – from car salesmen and developers to tent city dwellers, a construction worker, local gamblers, the commissioner, and performers, among others. During this exploration, I crossed paths with Hito Steyerl, engaged in filming for "In Free Fall" in the nearby Mojave Desert. Together, we dedicated a day to observing the haunting landscape marked by foreclosed and vacant homes, abandoned housing developments, and partially constructed casino buildings.
In the course of this journey, an insightful excerpt emerged from an interview with Las Vegas developer Richard Lee, encapsulating the raw realities faced by the community. This project served as a catalyst, influencing and shaping many themes that persist in my work to this day.
Beverly Dale
Video, 2008
A video portrait of Dale and Marie who lived together in the mountains of northern California.