The Icebox

Youtube Video of The Icebook

(Courtesy: Davy and Kristin McGuire)

I love the idea behind this art instillation. Having the installation present without a projection alone astonishing, however, once the projector overlays video, it becomes an entirely new piece. This is by far one of the most creative uses of projection I have seen. What is great is that the images and installation are 2D yet when the projections play through, the installations have great depth and the illusion of 3 dimensions. Haunted houses and amusement parks should feature most visuals like this as it draws onlookers attention away from reality. Each little set made for this installation features its own background story that can be viewed and interpreted in various ways. I believe that for an art piece this is most important. The audiences perception of the piece should always be a consideration that the artist makes. It is great that the traditional art is given new life with the projector. Overall, I am really impressed with this installation and how it seems like a contemporary take on Wayang Kulit.

1965 Yoko Ono Cut Piece

Youtube Video of Yoko Ono's 1965 Cut Piece

(Courtesy: satumtrak)

Yoko Ono's 1965 cut piece was a great example of performance art. She subjected herself to the will of the public. It was a bold choice to let the audience interact with her as a live art installation. Much more credit is given to her for letting the audience cut off her clothes. I don't fully understand the message or original intent behind this performance art, however, I know it provides deep meaning into the life and beliefs of Yoko Ono. Being as prominent of a social figure as she is, this performance art is one to be admired for bravery and impact. The music that accompanies the video is certainly strange enough to make listeners reevaluate what they are watching solely based on the eclectic sounds made throughout the track. It is worth noting that throughout the entire video she maintains a calm and soothing look, rarely phased by the audiences interactions. Overall, I enjoyed Yoko Ono's cut piece, although it is not an approach at performance art I would take myself. 

2009 Black Eyed Peas Flash Mob

Youtube Video of A Black Eyed Peas Flash Mob

(Courtesy: xxraipxx)

This performance piece hosted by Oprah was interesting to watch. At the time, in 2009, I'm sure this flash mob came close to if not set a record. To orchestrate and coordinate this many people together is outstanding. I personally have never been part of a flash mob before but am sure it is quite difficult to rehearse with so many people. I would imagine that it takes weeks of practice to perfect the choreography and timing. Since this event I am sure there have been larger scale flash mobs that need helicopter coverage just to capture the vast amount of people moving in unison. In order to pull off such a large scale flash mob, each person must be familiar with the live performance by the Black Eyed Peas. This is a feat that not many people can pull off. Oprah is truly a great host who has just about done it all with the goal of pleasing her audience. This performance art is nothing short of Oprah's on camera magic that seems to bring out the best in everyone. Her success can be attributed to her commitment to all. 

Banksy Performance Art

Youtube Video of Banksy's Performance Art Piece 

(Courtesy: Tonno Che Rotola)

The performance piece in which Banksy modifies and recreates Paris Hilton's new CD is amazing. I was unaware he even did this, despite knowing about his work for years now. I must applaud Banksy as I share a strong dislike for Paris Hilton along with the rest of the world for having little to no talent. I enjoyed the idea and concept behind this event, however, the quality could have been better. I believe the way in which the CD's were switched out could have been easier. Assuming that this video was taken years ago, I will not critique this video as harshly as I would a modern day reproduction. This was most certainly shot during the age where hard copy disks were as heavily guarded and monitored than jewelry. Nowadays CD's have been rendered obsolete with the popularity of streaming and now store owners would be lucky if thieves stole their hardcopy disks just to free up the space they are taking up. Overall, I enjoyed the performance and hope to see Banksy recreate this old video with a newer more relevant artist.

Wayang Kulit & Theatrical Performance

Wayang Kulit 's History Explained Video 

(Courtesy: Khatulistiwa.info at Vimeo.com)

Wayang Kulit, the Indonesian theatrical performance of shadow puppets, is deeply ingrained in the country's culture, history, and livelihood. It is so important that there are three specific regions where it has become infamous for this art form. Careers, theaters, and pass times have been created as a result of this cultural performance. Wayang Kulit can be used to describe the current social structure of Indonesia, give out sermons, and a medium of education as mentioned in the video. It can also be used as a medium for dispersing information to the people. It is seen as an ingenious cultural heritage of Indonesia and the world to many Indonesians, often synonymous with the identity of the country. 

In the video a man who now works as a Dalang, a shadow puppeteer, was taught since the age of three to master Wayang Kulit. As a Dalang he is expected to orchestrate the puppet movements in synchronization with the music and dialogue, as well as play instruments at the same time. According to the video, a single performance can use up to 400 different Wayangs, each with their own characteristics and distinct features that contribute to the storyline. 

Much like Wayang Kulit, American theater has shared its history with storytelling and performances. Puppet shows, marionettes, and films have been used to achieve many similar goals that the Indonesians seek with Wayang Kulit. Despite the low technological integration that the Indonesian theatrical performance has, it still requires a great amount of skill and has remained true to its origins. American theater unless specified as solely one type of show has evolved to a more contemporary style. This change has developed in order to satisfy the ever-changing interests of the American public. Adaptations from classic performances have now become common and most of the old styles are performed for a sense of nostalgia or urge for avant-garde trends.