FROM THE FIELD
In March, I visited the Whitney Museum of American Art where I got a chance to see great work on display from a wide range of artists. Some of the exhibitions on view were Lorna Simpson’s photographic and film works, Gordon Matta Clark’s various forms of work, Terence Koh’s installation for the Whitney’s Lobby Gallery, a film series featuring an array of films made by artists for the screen called "Lights, Camera Action: Artists’ Films for the Cinema", and my favorite, Taryn Simon’s selection of photographs from a body of work titled "An American Index of the Hidden and Unfamiliar".
This exhibition is a compilation of photographs taken of spaces that are either inaccessible or unknown within the borders of the United States. They are America’s hidden and unfamiliar places.
As I pushed open the tall glass door and entered the remarkably hot room, I saw these peculiar photographs lined up on the bright white gallery walls. Approaching each piece, I tried to interpret the scene without the aid of the description below. In every instance, I was completely puzzled and clueless, yet drawn to each. Finally, I gave in and read each description, glancing over at the photograph as I read on. The subject matter ranged in categories such as government, science, security, entertainment, medicine, nature and religion. Usually photographers take pictures of everyday occurrences that the public is already familiar with or has some knowledge about. These were definitely not your typical wholesome American snap shots. Simon’s photographs give onlookers access to places and instances they may never get a chance to see or experience themselves. It shows how complex and diverse our society is. In that sense, it inspires others especially artists to look beyond the norm and obvious beCause the Hidden and the Unfamiliar can be more fascinating.
Wired Next Fest
On September 29, 2006 I attended WIED magazine’s third annual NextFest. The event included over 130 exhibits focused on the future of communication, design, entertainment, exploration, green living, health, play, security and transportation.
As I walked through and viewed the different exhibits I thought about how these advanced technologies could be applied to everyday life. Take for example THE Vein Viewer developed by Luminetx. The viewer calls upon near-infrared, a digital video camera, and an image processor located veins immediately. This allows medical personnel to draw blood, start an IV or administer drugs easily and painlessly by avoiding repeatedly poking a patient while trying to find a vein.
One of the exhibits called Pixel Roller by Random International also caught my attention. It allows images, words and drawings on any flat surface using an instrument that resembles a paint roller. The digital content is transferred via a USB connection to a laptop. It is then applied manually to the desired surface with the Pixel Roller. I really loved this invention because I could see it being used not just as Art but also as an Advertising tool. Rather than going through traditional printing processes, Advertisers could communicate their ideas quickly and easily.
Overall I loved the exhibits and the experience was eye opening. Interactive, digital art combined with science and technology to improve the quality of life for everyone. I look forward to next year’s NextFest.