A Stunning Experience

2013
Two-channel HD video installation with stereo sound
Infinite loop
Installation dimensions vary

Installation documentation from ‘TALK SHOW’, Kudos Gallery, Sydney, 15 – 26 October 2013
Photos: Zan Wimberley

A Stunning Experience pits Oprah Winfrey and David Letterman against each other in an infinite interview. Through simple editing and compositing, both parties are rendered mute, positioned at either edge of a black void. The interviewer/interviewee dynamic is playfully reconfigured into an awkward exchange comprised entirely of blinks, breaths and head-nods. Accompanied by the sound of a curious and whispering studio audience, this wordless clash between the two talk show titans becomes emblematic of their infamous sixteen-year feud. The quasi-staring contest upends the cult of personality surrounding these iconic television hosts, while also creating and proposing a space for reflection upon the experiential and even meditative potential of watching television.

Previous
Previous

Every face on Vanity Fair’s Hollywood covers 1995-2008

Next
Next

Dialog