Carolyn Sortor
Position + Permeability
(infrathin 32.782083 x -96.766809 [Beefhaus])
Beefhaus, 833 Exposition Ave., Dallas
Although Sortor began this work in 2015, I equate the antiquated google map program to our current political situation. The pixelated-mapping image expands/recedes with the red arrow appearing periodically to indicate, “you are here”. It is impossible for the viewer to “see” the location, rendering the map non-functional. This abstract non-space functions as a smoke screen to cloud our vision. To further politicize the work, Sortor incorporates audio of Hispanic laborers working and talking in the background and an LED feed of Supreme Court Rulings regarding interstate travel; both leave us with a feeling that freedom has become more elusive.
~ Colette Copeland
images courtesy of Carolyn Sortor and Ben Britt
Image/Caption List:
image by Ben Britt _ Installation view, Location Marker Shadow (Drywallers) (2015-17)
HD video projection with audio, 4:29 min., looping, on draped 9 x 16’ seamless paper, with LED crawl.
still from Location Marker Shadow (Drywallers)
still from Location Marker Shadow (Drywallers)
Still from Navigation Arrows (2015-17)
HD video with audio on window-sized flatscreen, 5:16 min., looping.
image by Ben Britt _ Installation view, Moving Time (2017)
Ca. 2,900 custom 3 x 3” sticky notes with dying sod and audio.