Hilary Harp + Suzie Silver (2005)

Embracing curator Laura Domencic’s theme of “play” we created Rondo specifically for the 2005 Pittsburgh Biennial at The Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. Inspired both by Oskar Schlemmer’s Triadic Ballet and by the kaleidoscopic dance routines of Busby Berkeley, Rondo is pure spectacle. We combined the live action improvisatory movements of Mark and Christine Cato, outfitted in absurd geometric costumes, with digitally animated forms and physically constructed models. The resulting assemblage presents a layered machine or system in which figures, constructed forms, and digital abstractions intermingle in a dynamic and colorful matrix. Presented in an oversized geometric kiosk, the video can be viewed from any starting point and defies any narrative expectations. Paired with a large projection of a virtual mechanical system the installation suggests the ridiculous workings of a pointless, but visually pleasing machine.

Performers: Mark and Christine Cato