I was in Glasgow for the day and had time to kill so decided to check out the local Gallery of Modern Art. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there was an ongoing digital exhibition that looked interesting.
It was called SLOW DANS and was a cycle of three 10-screen videos – KOHL, FELT TIP, and THE TEACHERS. Artist Elizabeth Price showcases three works that present a “fictional past, parallel present, and imagined future, interweaving compact narratives that explore social and sexual histories and our changing relationship with the material and the digital.” (Price, 2023).
Upon entering the space itself, it was pitch-black, save for the light created by the screen. Unfortunately, as you had just entered from the bright room before, your eyes have not adjust whatsoever and you cannot see where you are stepping. Vaguely aware of the layout thanks to the museum staff and their small flashlight, myself and a friend clung to each other as we attempted to find a seat in the dark without stepping on anyone. After your eyes adjusted to the light, it was fine, but before then… perhaps the museum staff should have walked people to their seats…
You were met with an interesting mix of visuals and what I would describe as punctual and timed bits of sound. There was an underlying soundtrack of background music, but on top, corresponding to typing appearing on the screen was the clacking of keys, or laser sounding effects as rays of light danced across the space.
Small video I took: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zkdAmPS0iZs
Molly Munro
Price, E. (2023). Elizabeth Price: SLOW DANS. [online] Glasgow Life. Available at: https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/event/1/elizabeth-price-slow-dans.
