The diverse programming of Arts x Tech festival 9e2 makes it impossible to pick a favorite. However, Evening 3 on Sunday, October 23 is one of the nights I most highly recommend. Between the two featured artists, butoh master Kaoru Okumura and multimedia mastermind Gary Hill, one can expect some surreal, unsettling beauty.
From 9e2, regarding Okumura’s work, Beyond the Metaphors – Butoh x DeepDream:
Butoh dancer Kaoru Okumura, with Google Deep Dream researchers Mike Tyka, Kenric McDowell, Blaise Aguera y Arcas, and Steadicam operater Robin Buerki, combine the intensity of Butoh with the strange, wonderful nature of the DeepDream algorithm. DeepDream and Butoh are both human reactions to changing technological circumstances. But they sit in uneasy harmony, with the minimalist, organic, and very human dance form finding an odd partner in the nonlinear hallucinations of machines. With DAIPANbutoh members, and live sound by Sam Frybyte.
Gar Hill’s layered use of cameras and projection also took on a dreamy, slightly nightmarish form at James Harris Gallery in July and August. That installation Dream Stop fragmented visitors to the gallery, scattering them from many angles across the gallery walls, and in strange self-peep shows. It was one of the most memorable art events so far this year. The enigmatic teaser for his performance for 9e2, Unconditional Surrender, suggests that he will continue on this theme of physical fragmentation through images and technology. It will, no doubt, be quite memorable, too.
9e2: Evening 3, Kaoru Okumura and Gary Hill
When: October 23, 7pm to 11pm
Where: King Street Station, Floor 3 (303 S Jackson Street)
Free for festival passholders. $10 general admission. Buy tickets online. Get more info about 9e2’s programming on the official website.
