False Alphabets

Due to the process-based nature of the Session program, this project will undergo constant modifications; the features of this page provide accruing information on the project’s developments.

On March 19, Sara Magenheimer will begin work on False Alphabets, as part of Recess’s signature program, Session. Session invites artists to use Recess’s public space as studio, exhibition venue and grounds for experimentation.

Over the course of her Session, Magenheimer will construct sculptural sets composed of photographs, objects, and film equipment that will become the backdrop for a new video. The script for the video, written by Magenheimer, continues the artist’s interest in voice, and employs cinematic tropes that conflate embodied language and location. The script will evoke the role of “The Radio DJ” epitomized by characters like Mister Señor Love Daddy in Do The Right Thing and DJ Stevie Wayne in The Fog. These figures act as the omnipotent narrators of their films as well as create diegetic soundtracks to their cinematic worlds. Simultaneously addressing the movie going audience, the other characters, and their communities, their music is embodied rather than a superficial add-on for the viewer’s emotional manipulation.

Collaborating artists Eleanor Friedberger (Fiery Furnaces), Greg Saunier (Deerhoof), Free Paint (Magenheimer and Saunier) and more will perform the music for and act as narrators in this video. Performers will make mixes that involve narration and music. These mixes will function as a soundtrack for the video. Recess audience may stream these mixes online and will be invited to participate as “the listening public” on open-set days of filming.

The video and performances explore the limit of the necessary, functional dislocation between speech and physical body, attempting to bring language back to the body through techniques drawn from punk/Dada humor, absurdity, music and participation. Films featuring radio DJs will be screened throughout False Alphabets.

Session invites artists to use Recess’s public platform to combine productive studio space with dynamic exhibition opportunities. Sessions remain open to the public from the first day of the artist’s project through the last, encouraging sustained dialogue between artists and audiences. Due to the process-based nature of Session, projects undergo constant revision and the above proposal is subject to change.