Embracing the Digital Age: Where Physicality Meets Virtual Reality in Art
A Pioneering Exhibition at Tate Modern
Beneath the distinctive architecture of Tate's Tanks, a captivating new commission comes to life. Celebrated French artist, DJ, and producer Christelle Oyiri introduces her debut piece for the Tate Infinities Commission, a mesmerizing creation titled 'In a perpetual remix where is my song?'. This compelling installation, captivating audiences until August 28, marks a significant moment for the London institution, underscoring its commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking art.
The Convergence of Form and Technology
Oyiri's artistic vision, articulated through 'In a perpetual remix where is my song?', meticulously examines the profound influence of digital artistry on how individual and collective identities are shaped. The work provocatively reconsiders the physical body's representation in an era dominated by advanced digital manipulation and cut-and-paste technologies. It draws intriguing parallels between the art of DJing, the precision of cosmetic surgery, and the pervasive act of constructing online images, all of which involve a meticulous process of selection, modification, and presentation.
An Immersive Sensory Experience
The installation at Tate Modern offers a truly multi-sensory journey. Bronze figures, cast in female forms, are strategically placed atop speaker plinths, symbolizing a state of ongoing transformation. Dynamic spotlights shift across these sculptures, illuminating different facets of their metamorphosis. This visual narrative is complemented by an evolving soundscape that drifts from above, creating an enveloping auditory experience. Behind the sculptures, a captivating visual display combines meticulously filmed sequences with discovered digital imagery, weaving together internet ephemera and personal archives. This hypnotic blend of visuals and sounds explores themes of beauty and performance, creating a seamless, looping narrative.
Profound Questions from the Artist
At the core of Oyiri's installation lies a series of penetrating inquiries: "In a hyperconnected society, where the image is perpetually staged and corrected, how do the virtual and the material come together in the quest for the ideal body? How do aesthetic practices influence our perception of reality and desire?" These questions serve as a guiding principle for the exhibition, prompting viewers to reflect on their own engagement with digital platforms and the pursuit of perceived perfection.
The Genesis of the Infinities Commission
The unveiling of 'In a perpetual remix where is my song?' is particularly notable as it inaugurates the Tate Infinities Commission. This annual initiative is specifically designed to champion artists who are boldly redefining the boundaries of various creative disciplines. A distinguished panel, led by Chief Curator Catherine Wood and including renowned figures such as Brian Eno, Ouilimata Gueye, Anne Imhof, Andrea Lissoni, and Legacy Russell, oversees the selection process, ensuring the commission continues to spotlight pioneering artistic endeavors. The exhibition is housed within the historic and evocative setting of Tate Modern, located at Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom.