Bruce danced if Victoria sang, and Victoria sang; so Bruce danced
(Gus Fisher Gallery)
3 September 2010 to 9 October 2010
Venue: The Gus Fisher Gallery
Cost: Free
Bruce danced if Victoria sang, and Victoria sang; so Bruce danced covers Sean Kerr¿s work through the period 2010-2000. It recognises the instability of media art, looking back to recreate previous works, exploiting the juxtaposition of past and present to illustrate potential trajectories between works. Whether delivered live in the mode of performance, completed by the active role of the viewer, upgraded to evade redundant technology, or the simple practicality of reconfiguring an installation for a new site, Kerr¿s work refuses to be fixed in time through the process of a conventional retrospective.
Taking place simultaneously at the Gus Fisher Gallery and Artspace, this exhibition is the first survey of Kerr¿s work. One of New Zealand's leading digital artists, Kerr's interests lie in the emergent area of new media technologies, incorporating internet art, installation and sonic practices, but with a particular focus on the expectations and effects of interactivity. This often includes ill-mannered scenarios and ¿misbehaving¿ machines that owe as much to communication theory as slapstick comedy, exploring both social and technological dynamics.
Sean Kerr has shown throughout New Zealand and overseas including Media City Biennale, Seoul, 2002; Prospect 2004, Wellington; Rhizome, New Museum, New York, 2006; SCAPE, Christchurch, 2006; Physics Room, Christchurch, 2008; Newcall Gallery, 2009; and most recently, The reckless moment performed live with Simon Cuming as part of the 17th Biennale of Sydney SuperDeluxe programme at Artspace (Sydney), where he will return to undertake a residency in November and December.
Bruce danced also runs until 2 October at Artspace and coincides with the launch of a new book covering Kerr¿s work from the early 1990s to the present day. The 160-page publication On the Nose, published by Clouds, is out in September. This exhibition is supported by a National Institute of Creative Arts and Industries (NICAI) Research Development Fund. Sean Kerr has taught at Elam School of Fine Arts since 2002 and is represented by Michael Lett.