BS DC Import ID
node:20389
BS DC Import Time

Disappearance

1993
© Jeffrey Shaw; Photo © Photo: Jeffrey Shaw
Artist/s
Jeffrey Shaw
Title
Disappearance
Year
1993
Category
Computer-based
Installation
Material / Technique

modified forklift truck (Still R50-12), dancer doll, electric motor, hydraulic pump, monitor, video camera, lighting, custom-made control electronics, multi-part steel floor, security rail and emergency stop

Dimensions / Duration
height 320 cm, Ø 300 cm
Collection

ZKM | Center for Art and Media

Description

A large television monitor mounted on a forklift truck shows a larger-than-life virtual ballerina performing pirouettes. As the forklift truck moves the monitor up and down, the ballerina is shown from head to toe. As it rotates, the ballerina also appears to rotate. The TV monitor is like a window that gradually reveals the ballerina, who whirls on the same axis as the rotating forklift truck. A small rotating ballerina figure can also be seen in the engine compartment of the forklift truck, in front of which a video camera moves up and down; the mechanism is synchronised with the movement of the forklift truck and provides the video image of the ballerina. »Disappearance« awakens the faded memory of little ballerinas pirouetting on music boxes. These toys are part of the early history of robotics. 

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ZKM | Center for Art and Media

Lorenzstraße 19
76135 Karlsruhe

+49 (0) 721 - 8100 - 1200
info@zkm.de

Organization

Dialog