Performance-based single-channel audio-visual artwork with multichannel sound, analog-digital video composition.
Climate of Violence: Directions in Sound and Vision by Amy Sargeant and Arianna Nixon was performed at Wreckers Art Space in Woolloongabba, on August 5th, 2023.
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The third in a series of collaborations with protest artist Amy Sargeant, this project was conceived during an ever-increasing atmosphere of hatred towards trans people (particularly trans women) from not only TERFs and right-wing provocateurs, but an additional wave of politically motivated violence against us. The most defining push & main motivator through the creation process were the high-profile deaths of Onyx John, Eden Knight and Brianna Ghey.
Once again utilizing a specialized set of video distortion tools & audio effect chains, we delved deeper than ever into layer after layer of video distortion; how else could you possibly begin to convey such intense and deeply impactful emotions? Not only video montage but now shifting into using more intentionally synthesised imagery, the work began to evolve father and farther into an orchestration of fuzz & overwhelming sensation.
It was decided that we would mark distinct acts with different techniques employed to create a pseudo-narrative through the 40-minute piece.
I. Destati
II. Andante
III. Climate Of Violence
IV. Oscurita
V. Ascension
Climate Of Violence is a grand narrative of trans birth, oppression, & untimely death. It's a work that doesn't leave you with answers, but a call to action. A motivational force. It is not a work that paints a picture of liberation. It is a scream for help whilst being choked by a world that wants to see you gone.
For allies who benefit from oppression, it's a non-verbal exploration into what it may feel like to be in the shoes of trans people. For those in intersecting minority groups, it is a tool for applying your experiences to that of trans liberation. For trans people though, it is a reflection & form of catharsis where maybe, at least for a moment, they can feel understood in this climate of violence.
This work is dedicated to Onyx John, Eden Knight, Brianna Ghey, and all our trans siblings no longer with us.
We will never forget you, and we will never stop fighting for you.