Action Potential Arts Experiment

OMFAGALAP2010

2010-07-27T22:31:00.017-05:00

Written by: Action Potential Arts Experiment
Directed by: Jeremiah D. Reeves

OMFAGALAP2010 presents a documentary of a documentary; a double translation. A moving painting of survival told from the field through slave songs. In the Land of Pigs between power and money, recognition and blame, slavery and freedom exists an undulating journey of transition and failure where art and reputation are on the line.

THE CHARACTERS:
The Museum Board of Directors & Staff
The Director
The Artist’s Collective
The Guests

THE SETTING A Museum Gala Fundraiser in an airplane hangar. Decorated with pig themed ornaments and lit darkly. The guest tables, in the center of the hangar are arranged in clusters and circumscribed by a catered buffet and a full swing orchestra that has begun playing. There is an open bar. A giant pig hanging center stage. Guest are arriving; the usual donors, supporters, local politicians and otherwise deemed important people -- invitation only and by reservation; $75. 200+ guests expected. An artist’s collective has established an encampment stage south. They are dressed in basic natural clothing and resemble a great expedition crew. Their camp is bestrewed with an array of wooden objects, 50ft of rope, 24 canvas panels, painting supplies, several white paper lanterns…all of which can be carried or contained on their persons. They have been enjoying themselves drinking and laughing. As the guests arrive they are urged to join the camp and don disposable medical garb.

PROPS AND COSTUMES:

Props Items of Import.

Ladder A tool used for climbing.
Folding Chairs Easily carried and versatile.
Shoe Butler Multipurpose wooden object with a great name.
Wagon Good for transporting goods.
Lantern The light. A beacon and spot light.
Walking Staff Double as percussive instruments.
Burlap Sacks For supplies and games.
Rope The line connecting all.
Wooden Folding Tables A nice place to set things.
Dress An item of beauty and simplicity.
Boots Leather, old and large; protection and comfort with an element of style.
24 Canvas Panels Document actions.
Canvas-Drop Multipurpose.
Head Lamps Light to see.
Folding Shovel A compact tool.
Knife Most essential survival tool.
Chess Pieces A game of strategy.
Painting Supplies The plastic medium.
Disposable Medical Garb Blue.
Daisies fresh cut flowers.

Costumes basic natural clothing containing elements of wood, rope, canvas, and linen. Boots are the preferable foot attire for expeditions.

DIRECTOR OPENING COMMENTARY

[To the guest, using a microphone]

Why is it that the images of exploration so closely resemble those of slavery? Why do people conceal true messages in games of phonetics, etiquette and metaphor rather than stating the facts plainly? Can Art be made? Why is Art so exclusive? Who is an artist? Where should history live? When and how does failure become beautiful... raunchy... meaningful… trite? What does survival cost? What about relationships, how much do they cost? Belief? What are people willing to give to maintain…what are they willing to give to change? What is adaptation? And where do pigs fit into all of this?

These were our questions and we wanted answers.

PROGRESSION There are to be four encampments that alternate with a procession. During each encampment there are a series of actions/rituals performed as task to complete a set of paintings. There are to be a total of 24 paintings completed throughout the progression. The progression is told through a series of slave songs.

Initial Encampment The initial encampment is upon arrival of the collective as described in the opening. It is a time of merriment and jubilance. A toast is made and several of the collective are recording their thoughts in paint and journals. All items are unpacked from their persons and organized in neat little packet with some items in use. There is drinking, dinning, music and games. A burlap sack race takes place. Guests are invited to join and given a daisy. All guest are to urged to don disposable medical garb as not to be infected by the jubilee. At the signal of the director, the group begins assembling their items and displaying the initial paintings as flags or pennants at the designated sites. The group forms a line/procession. Songs: Jubilee; Hey Everybody; I’m Packing Up (see below)

Paintings:
1. Dinning
2. Dinning
3. Sweeping
4. Cooking
5. Documentation
6. Documentation

[As transition from encampment #1 to procession #1 sung as a group]

I’m Packing Up
By: Alex Foster & Michel LaRue
“I’m packing up; I’m getting ready to go
I’m packing up; I’m getting ready to go
I’m packing up; I’m getting ready to go
I’m just packing up; I’m getting ready to go”

Procession #1 The members of the collective are bound at the waist and equally spaced by a 50ft rope. The lantern is lit and heads the procession. Followed by the helm and remaining items - the wagon is to be in rear. They move in a line as if a locomotive force, building in intensity and marching. Songs: Read ‘Em John; Blow Gabriel

Encampment #2 A dance floor is constructed during this encampment utilizing four of the canvases and tape. The dress is to be worn by one partner who is barefoot and the boots by the other. A semi circle is formed around the dancing guest. All dance and all is recorded as paint. Songs: Religion, So Sweet; Raise A Ruckus

Paintings:
7. Dancing
8. Dancing
9. Dancing
10. Dancing
11. Documentation

Procession #2 The expedition continues as follow the leader. The canvas-drop is to be used as the wind, flailing and thundering; a hurricane of sorts. There are screams and low moaning while the hurricane laughs. Songs: Pharaoh’s Host Got Lost

Encampment #3 Games of strategy are played. The map is consulted. A solemn and pensive mood exists. Three are bandaged immobilizing their right knee. The group is shaken and all begins to quiet. Songs: Kneebone Bend; John on the Island, I Hear Him Groan

Paintings:
12. Chess
13. Chess
14. Map
15. Documentation
16. Documentation

Procession #3 They move in a line silently as if searching for something [Look Over Yonder] in the darkness. Then only footsteps and the clanking of items can be heard. There is a noise! Ear to-the ground they listen and begin chanting [Voo-Doo American]. The voodoo seizes the last member in a strangle-hold. He struggles and dies. Pulling him in wagon a camp is made. Songs: Look Over Yonder (edited); Voo-Doo American (edited)

[As transition from procession #3 to the final encampment, sung, standing with each chant]

Voo-Doo American (phonetic expression)
By: Alex Foster & Michel LaRue
“bye-a-boo-la-ko
bye-a-boo-la-ko
bye-a-boo-la-ko
bye-a-boo-la-ko”

Final Encampment Funeral preparations are made. A gravesite is constructed. Some Pray. The hands of the body are dipped in paint as he is wheeled to his final resting place. He is traced and buried. Daisies are returned withered and tossed at grave site. Songs: Hold the Baby; Lay Down, Body

Paintings:
17. Burial
18. Burial
19. Burial
20. Burial
21. Documentation
22. Documentation
23. Documentation
24. Documentation

Final Procession The group binds themselves as a statue of hope, lantern held high and center atop the ladder and beaming forward. Songs: Wade the Water to My Knees

DOCUMENTARY The Documentary is to continue throughout the Gala as the stories of the individuals involved. They are to be shared in their proper social setting - from person to person. An oral tradition continued; a folklore history belonging to its time.

OMFAGALAP2010 was first presented by APAE in conjunction with Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, at Hangar 3, 1 Bullfrog Boulevard, Owensboro, KY, on May 15, 2010.

flight 18 kinda crashed for us

2010-04-19T10:42:00.007-05:00

Hmmmmm. Kind of reminds me of a take-off (no pun intended, but it sounded better than rip-off) of "take off with us" & "air-otica" only not done so well.
Larry & I watched this morning & these things came to mind - IN TERMS OF THE OMFA PROJECT:

1) were there spectaters/audience?

2) if the answer to the above is yes, then were they participating? where were they?

3) thses folks look like actors/performers.which we are not.

We didn't relate it so much with facilitating the OMFA guests painting. I don't know, dude, we just weren't that into it.

A [Star]-Bridge

2010-04-14T02:07:00.002-05:00

Here is a conceptual bridge between The Radiator Game and the OMFAGALAP2010 project. This is something that just ended in NYC on the 4th of this month, so check back on their website as there maybe more online later? I think it is a great comparison. The link was actually sent to me as an invitation to attend, from one of the performers (Ali), who I know from another project- glad it was. Please check it out and share your thoughts...wish I could have been there.

http://www.ny1.com/1-all-boroughs-news-content/ny1_living/115896/space-themed-performance-keeps-downtown-s-soul-at-zero-g?ap=1&Flash

http://www.flight18.net

Music From a Tree

2010-04-12T23:13:00.002-05:00

I think this idea is definitely in line with the requirements for our current project.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fY-ZoVMwGKM

The Radiator Game

2009-07-21T03:47:00.004-05:00

An Action Potential Arts Experiment Original:
::: THE RADIATOR GAME :::

The Radiator Game presents the collision of life and theatre within a vivarium; exposing the spectacle as a game in all its frivolity and seriousness, where ingenuity and absurdity are intensified and time stretched - a fusion of science and culture, psychology and art, dreams and reality.

Directed by Jeremiah D. Reeves

August 7, 2009 - August 9, 2009
Opening Reception Friday 6-8pm

J.E. Smith Gallery
413 Main Street
Evansville, IN 47708

For More Info:
actionpotentialarts@gmail.com
270.302.3974

Visit the Blog:
actionpotentialarts.blogspot.com

Sponsored By: J.E. Smith Gallery, Sticks & Stones, Casino Aztar, The Jungle Restaurant, Hacienda

Nice to know...

2009-06-24T03:44:00.003-05:00

...that some people are on the same page. Checkout these images I found today. Don't they remind you of the film crew characters? Also The Tango/Valise handcuffed to the director?

Definitely "RAD"

http://wearcam.org/griefcase/

Advertising in Bloomington

2009-06-23T00:51:00.002-05:00

Los Angeles Film Festival from LA Weekly

2009-06-19T09:57:00.003-05:00

Los Angeles Film Festival: Reviews, A to Z

By L.A. Weekly Film Critics

CRITIC’S PICK WE LIVE IN PUBLIC (USA) Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, director Ondi Timoner’s remarkable documentary follows obsessive self-documenter Josh Harris on his decadelong odyssey from multimillionaire Internet pioneer and Manhattan art-world cause célèbre to bankrupt (financially and emotionally), mentally unhinged exile. In 1999, before reality TV boomed or the words MySpace, Facebook and YouTube had entered the lexicon, Harris signed on for privacy-free life by launching the underground art project Quiet: We Live in Public, in which 100 like-minded exhibitionists lived for 30 days in open cells under the constant scrutiny of video cameras and Orwellian interrogators. Timoner (DIG!) was there from the start, and she stuck around for Harris’ equally catastrophic second act, in which he and his then-girlfriend equipped their apartment with wall-to-wall surveillance cameras and proceeded to live their lives, for your viewing pleasure, at the Web site weliveinpublic.com. Harris’ gradual implosion is both repellent and mesmerizing, Timoner’s film unsparing in its scrutiny. She films, therefore he is. (Mann Festival; Sun., June 21, 7:15 p.m.; Landmark, Wed., June 24, 9:30 p.m.) (SF)

The Radiator Game - (Show Card)

2009-06-17T04:28:00.003-05:00

Action Potential Arts Experiment Presents:

THE RADIATOR GAME

The Radiator game presents the collision of life and theatre within a vivarium; exposing the spectacle as a game in all its frivolity and seriousness, where ingenuity and absurdity are intensified and time stretched - a fusion of science and culture, psychology and art, dreams and reality.

Directed by Jeremiah D. Reeves

August 7, 2009 - August 9, 2009
Opening Reception Friday 6-8pm

J.E. Smith Gallery
413 Main Street
Evansville, IN 47708

For More info:
actionpotentialarts@gmail.com
270.302.3974

Visit the blog:
actionpotentialarts.blogspot.com

Relate/Releted/Relating...Really

2009-06-12T10:57:00.003-05:00

I came across this quote from Roger Ebert that I immediately related directly to ::The Radiator Game::

"A movie is not good because it arrives at conclusions you share, or bad because it does not. A movie is not about what it is about. It is about how it is about it: about the way it considers its subject matter, and about how its real subject may be quite different from the one it seems to provide." - Roger Ebert

I especially relate to this part - "A movie is not about what it is about. It is about how it is about..."

Of course, lately everything seems to be relating to ::The Radiator Game:: doesn't it?

sunshine through the rain

2009-06-11T15:18:00.002-05:00

I was just outside in the rain, all the while the sun was shining. I didn't see any foxes holding their wedding processions, so I guess I'm safe.

On Absurdity and the Game c Dance

2009-06-09T03:22:00.003-05:00

Deliverance...screams the game. Think of the 'rituals' happening within this film. The clash of cultures...the mirror - the repetition of lines, the lead and follow of the sound; an order in things...the mask...the displacement and creation of a subculture simultaneously hated as a species, but admired for their environment. Almost as if to highlight the absurdity of the term Hill-Billy. But doesn't in some way...the environment dictate the life that grows there? The seedy culture of nature...where manure nourishes freaks...not 'beautiful' flowers!

Also take note of the costumes...especially Burt Reynold's...looks like he just stepped out of the Apocalypse Now or some James Bond flick...is this our soldier 37 years ago, but considerably older? In the past, but older than now; conjugating the past and the future into the living present(verb)?

Dreams

2009-06-06T03:43:00.004-05:00

Directed by: Akira Kurosawa

A must see film in relation to The Radiator Game. This is one of the best movies I have seen in a long time. Simply elegant and amazing. Look at this film...the characters are all there...and talk about vivarium (environment). I can't believe I never heard of this film before now. Luckily I randomly stumbled upon it. I am digging the "absurdity" also, that kind of dream world that is reality but isn't...the day-dream, the nightmare...the unconscious becoming conscience; a great reference for those "theatrical breaks" to our reality.

As the tagline on IMDB puts it:

"The past, present, and future. The thoughts and images of one man... for all men. One man's dreams... for every dreamer. "

Boombox

2009-06-02T00:17:00.001-05:00

***This goes out to Joe***

Friends of APAE: SUPERSTITION

2009-05-28T03:37:00.006-05:00

“VERY SUPERSTITIOUS, WRITINGS ON THE WALL”

WHO: Directed by J.D. Szalla

WHAT: Superstition: An art party that is a documentary in the
making. The Gershwin Hotel will be the first location for a film documenting unrepresented artists. J.D. Szalla will direct this party as he attempts to work with raw process, dealing with contemporary American myth and ritual. The participating artists and the general public are invited to attend, participate or just observe. Szalla's process tries to work within the constraints of a new era of anxiety. The decadence, fear and loathing of the past decade has fallen. Superstition is the next generation of artists forging the new New York.

• Sponsored by The Local 269 (269 East Houston Street, NY, NY)

• Free Drinks from 8 to 10 pm

• $10 admission

WHERE: The Gershwin Hotel
7 East 27th Street (Between 5th and Madison Aves)
New York, NY 10016
gershwinhotel.com

WHEN: Tuesday, June 2nd 2009 @ 8pm

After party at The Local 269, 10:30 pm
(no cover charge)

MEDIA: For press inquiries please contact:
Sara Shae @ 609.760.4157 sarashae@gmail.com

**********************************************************************************
**********************************************************************************

JD Szalla is a trusted friend of APAE. Please attend this event and tell your friends.

::Action Potential Arts Experiment::

2009-05-27T02:11:00.005-05:00

::: The Radiator Game :::

The Jenga/Book Tower Sculptural Elements

Images: marco dessi "twisted radiator" et jenga blocks from APAE meeting

I have been thinking this over in my head...over et over...then a vision. The fallen jenga tower sculptural elements should be made of books - painted white. I think this may help to frame the "altar" et tie in our zoo map/landscaped feel.

What we need:
100 hardcover used books (guessing on that number) - collected from yard sales
1 can of white paint

***note: be sure not to paint the pages...just the covers.

Any thoughts??? By the way, does anyone have a music stand?

2009-05-21T03:05:00.002-05:00

::Action Potential Arts Experiment::
::: The Radiator Game :::

Currently Seeking Creative Individuals

APAE, a local collection of artists, is currently seeking creative, driven individuals, IMMEDIATELY for current project. Character, tech and film crew positions remain open.

The Performance: August 7th – 9th, 2009 @ J. E. Smith Gallery, 413 Main Street, in Evansville, IN.

The play which takes the form of a game, where theater and reality are one, seeks to explore our relationship with time while presenting an image to the phrase "life is a game." The play, like a game, completes itself when all of the rules set out in the script have been played out to their final conclusion by the cast of characters.

The Radiator Game presents the collision of life and theatre within a vivarium; exposing the spectacle as a game in all its frivolity and seriousness, where ingenuity and absurdity are intensified and time stretched - a fusion of science and culture, psychology and art, dreams and reality.

About APAE

APAE is an artist run collective/collaborative based in Owensboro, KY. APAE seeks to engage the local community with original, inspiring and thought provoking forms of contemporary art. APAE is free to join.

E-mail actionpotentialarts@gmail.com or call 270.302.3974 to schedule an audition or for more information.

Don’t forget to check out the blog: actionpotentialarts.blogspot.com

APAE: ~Between Art & Life

Into the Wilde

2009-05-14T18:48:00.006-05:00

Having been profoundly affected by encountering the following statement today, I simply cannot pass up the opportunity to spread its influence…

Consider this for a moment:

“It is the spectator, and not life, that art really mirrors.”

Upon first reading, this may strike you as a rather used-up idea in reference to contemporary art. However, take another moment to contemplate the fact that the art you thought you were reflecting on is, in fact, REFLECTING BACK ON YOU.

As a video installation exhibit currently on display at Participant Inc. (Chelsea, NY), Dorian is an adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s 19th Century novel, “The Picture of Dorian Gray”. Read the expanded description of the show if you wish, but my connection with it and The Radiator Game is that Dorian, both in this exhibit and Wilde’s novel, “exists as a contemporary superstar, a mirror to our own narcissism – desirable, unknowable, destroyed by vacant ambition”.

Suffice it to say, I don’t necessarily think that Sir Radiator needs to be destroyed (though this would serve as quite the sci-fi-esque ending), but I do think that at the same time people are desiring not to be him, due to the pain and mockery he is enduring, they should be finding him desirable, because he possesses something they do not – perhaps a key, perhaps an answer, perhaps the way out of this game!

All of the performers in Dorian (which I intend to see in person next week) are playing some version of themselves, ranging from – in reality – a gender-bending drag impresario or a renowned Theremin player, to the slightly more common, but nonetheless unique, media and performance artists. The fact that each character utilizes their own instrument also holds symbolic meaning.

Which brings me back to my original inspiration – we should all set incorporating a true piece of our identity into The Game as a top priority, because despite the fact that we will have spectators, we will ultimately serve as spectators to none other than ourselves.

Wonderful find...

2009-05-11T02:56:00.002-05:00

There's a time for living
Time keeps on flying
Think you're loving baby
But all your doing is crying

[chorus]
Can you feel
Are those feelings real
Look at your game, girl
Look at your game, girl

What a mad delusion
Living in that confusion
Frustration and doubt
Can you ever live without the game

The sad, sad game
Mad game
Just to say loves' not enough
?? it can't be true
Oh, you can tell those lies
Baby but you're only fooling you

[chorus]

You feel
I those feelings ain't real
Then you better stop trying
Or you're gonna play crying
Stop trying

That's the game
Sad sad game
Mad game
Sad game

2009-04-28T03:59:00.000-05:00

the poet?

2009-04-23T18:35:00.003-05:00

tell me what you think about this for a character. here goes. the poet is a character provided with or responsible for writing prose and poetry relevant to the situation, life, death, etc... Resources for the writing could be assembled ahead and be included in the script. As far as his place in reality, the poet is the "inner voice" of the seeker or individual. he is the part of us that sees the beauty or the chaos in everyday life. he is the analyzer and the complicator, depending on the situation and environment in which he is placed. In the play he will speak whenever he feels necessary and must reflect the feelings that he is speaking about. anyway, tell me what you think so that we can further refine and define this character, if we choose to include him.

P.S. this was inspired by the open mic night. the constant stream of poetry from various individuals kind of put me in a state of torpor, punctuated by juicy adjectives that inspired colors and sounds, fireworks and flowers inside that little world of mine.

Playing games in the mall

2009-04-23T13:06:00.007-05:00

A few pictures from our rendezvous in the mall, where we played boardgames.

Discussion: The Radiator Game

2009-04-23T06:03:00.009-05:00

Transfering Ritual of Object No.2

2009-04-20T01:47:00.004-05:00

A tango (or rhumba) is performed.

What is the object? What visual of tango/rhumba? (remember Kantor's lifeless/dragging tango, or Fellini's La Saraghina doing the rhumba?) How is the music created/integrated/devised? Dance=life=enjoyment of the game=love=cosmic law

****By the way, the movie "Last Tango in Paris" is a wonderful film...very relevant.

Objective of the Game #1

2009-04-18T04:10:00.007-05:00

1. The understandable objective is to break a world record.

************************************************************************************
Proposal Submitted to Guinness World Records for consideration
************************************************************************************

Summary Claim Details

You may want to keep a copy of these details for your reference. If any information is incorrect, please use the Previous Button to go back and amend the details.

Claim Title:	Longest Continuous Theatre Performance
Country:	United States
City/Town/Village:	Owensboro, KY
Date of attempt:	06/ 05/ 2009
Record Details:	Action Potential Arts Experiment (APAE), an artist collaborative, will be performing "The Radiator Game" directed by Jeremiah D. Reeves on June 5th, 2009 in Owensboro, KY. The play which takes the form of a game, where theater and reality are one, seeks to explore our relationship with time while presenting an image to the phrase "life is a game." The play will take place in an alternative theater space, whose set is constructed as, and modeled after, a zoo vivarium. The play, like a game, completes itself when all of the rules set out in the script have been played out to their final conclusion by the cast of characters. The set will be under continuous video surveillance for the entire duration. It will be open to the public and free of charge. However the script will be for sale at the performance. All aspects of “The Radiator Game,” including: the characters, costumes, the setting, props, objective of game, rules for playing, rituals/moves and some lines spoken are accounted for in the script. Since the play is a game, which is played in real time in front of an audience, it has the potential of lasting for a long time. We are assuming the game will be performed anywhere between 12-72 hours straight; affording it a candidacy for some kind of world record. The script is an original written by APAE. It is self published in book form and will also be made available publicly on our blog (actionpotentialarts.blogspot.com). Since the event is being sponsored by a local magazine (VENT Magazine), there is a potential that it will be published in the following months (July 2009) issue. A short description of the piece: The Radiator Game presents the collision of life and theatre within a vivarium; exposing the spectacle as a game in all its frivolity and seriousness, where ingenuity and absurdity are intensified and time stretched - a fusion of science and culture, psychology and art, dreams and reality. APAE is an artist run collective/collaborative founded in 2009. It operates as a conceptual gallery curating exhibitions and performances for alternative and public spaces. APAE seeks to engage the local community with original, inspiring and thought provoking forms of contemporary art. They are currently seeking non-profit status. This theater piece bears a likeness to the work of Robert Wilson; a Brooklyn based theater director, who may hold a similar world record for the one proposed.

Adjudication Information requested
Media:	Local and national news and magazines. The event is being sponsored by VENT magazine and may include others.
This event is not in aid of Charity

http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/default.aspx

Objective of the Game #2

2009-04-18T02:56:00.005-05:00

2. The Seeker must regain his past (objects) and restore the order of things (nouns and verbs).

***thumb through this book....funny it was on my shelf at my feet. Asking myself the motivation of human endeavor "To..." Bam! there she was...Restore the Order of Things. I am now reading this book. Hopefully I can finish it before the performance. Read it when you need inspiration or have nothing to do. The preface is a good spot to start....especially where he is quoting Borges.

amazon book link
google book link

Quote for game

2009-04-14T13:33:00.000-05:00

"I think that man now realizes that he is an accident, that he is a completely futile being, that he has to play out the game without reason." - Francis Bacon

The Radiator

2009-04-13T11:35:00.002-05:00

Here is a little reference for the radiator from the wonderful David Lynch

There is also an orange radiator cast in plastic from Rudolph Stingel, but I can't find an image of it.

Somewhere around there.

2009-04-11T03:49:00.003-05:00

had to be posted. I like the envolvement of the camera and television as part of the piece, the giant light on a stick, and the machines. Particularly fond of the construction of the set and how it is exposed, practical and a simple solution. Egg-beater man hanging...scuba bike...fabulous. Check out the groups related videos also. Really neat.

The Game: Material for Ideas

2009-04-11T03:18:00.003-05:00

This is one of my favorite films. It relates wonderfully. Everyone should watch it to glean ideas. La vita è bella 1997

Unrefined pieces of thought

2009-04-10T08:25:00.005-05:00

I've been thinking about feeding, defecating etc...
How much does it cost to rent a port-a-potty? We could cover one up with foliage, or even make a cave-like structure to stick one in. Or we could create a cave or amass a large amount of foliage around the door leading to the bathroom already in the building, blocking it off from viewers.
I'm thinking about fishing, bags of food, zip lock bags, pop-tarts, chips, etc. out of a makeshift pond, or perhaps everyday for lunch or dinner, someone picking us something to eat that we each go into the cave seperately to enjoy, like our break/coffee area.
The hunter/poacher. I'd like to see that idea used somehow, maybe if the seeker gets close enough to those he's seeking, the poacher can come "shoot" them, I dunno, if you think of something let me know, or run with it, either way :-)
Piles of leaves...useful for something...
I've also got this idea stuck in my head of Alice, trying to enjoy tea with the Mad-Hatter, and hot the rules they've made are a bit off, (un-birthdays,MOVE DOWN MOVE DOWN, TIME TOO MOVE DOOOWN!)
Table manners/rules, maybe it starts off peacefully enough at the dinner table, the seeker and the sought are sitting together at the table having tea, or eating, peacefully, then something happens, maybe the seeker gets angry and scares off the sought, maybe something else happens, something chaotic like a car crashing into the table or something, basically showing how the seeker and sought became seperated. Maybe when all the sought are found they return to the table and simply finish their meal.
Or maybe this means I've lived in Owensboro for far too long. Thinking about eating out and such...
Damn it.
-nick

Rules for Play: (to generate a rule)

2009-04-10T04:30:00.004-05:00

Since it has been said that Children are "brutally honest" - ask a child to create a rule...

Here is another reference for Rule Making:

Let the Design Begin: The Radiator Game

2009-04-09T12:49:00.004-05:00

I have separated everything into these categories:

Setting (vivarium)

Characters/Players

Props

Objective of game

Rules for Play

Rituals

Text (words spoken)

Other

Please make all post from now on (in reference to The Radiator Game) with one of these as the title. I am taking notes on these and at the meeting we will solidify all of the notes into a design.

Note: This is the time to generate meaningful content, we will edit later, so be thorough and give examples and explanations. Be as creative as you like. Post pictures, video, text....ect.

The Tickling Trickle of Thoughts Wriggling Wryly Away!

2009-04-08T17:28:00.002-05:00

...Spaaaartans! What is your profession!?...hmmm... I'm glad the TV is off... My ideas, specifically the ones I wrote down during our last meeting include... Eternity ends, Time... Space to think, remember, the past, family, friends, happy, sad, emotion is overwhelming. Sisyphus son of Aeolus, weeps, stares blankly back at the boulder, finally freed from his violent prodding, rests once again at the bottom of the eternal hill. Realization; He could've stopped stopped at any time. Perhaps it was hope that drove him, or faith. Hope it seemed was the worst of all evils loosed by Pandora, allowing man to prolong his torture and abandon reason... Sisyphus falls... the boulder with him, following as if linked by a chain beyond eternity... Another idea had it in the shower... Butthole surfers are pretty good, that song "avalanche" is euphoric to listen to after excercising... wish I hadn't forgotten Jane's name... Wonder if they'll even get any of this... Images... Moving pictures... black and white... an ape-like man begins coughing... zoom in... his eyes appear to be bulging out, he's gagging, clutching his throat, screams mingling with gurgles, suffocation, he falls to the floor, on his knees, dry heave, dry heave, PAPER CUT, PAPER CUT, BLOOD, VOMIT... ("maybe he's dead now, face down in his own blood, vomit... societies expectations, rules, morales, commandments, covered in copious amounts homo erectus's fluids, lay next to him, hair recedes, he seems more human now, almost child-like, innocence is restored, what cost?")
I can only imagine... the parents... feeding that to their children, did they cut it up? bite size? easier to swallow, as their parents did for them? How long was it in there?... hmmm Seinfeld is on... Still gotta continue my bio for Jeremiah... I guess... funny the bio seemed like a character I wrote for a long time ago... I love that kid... need coffee, maybe just acceptence and to learn how to spell... see you in hell.
-nick

New Project: The Radiator Game

2009-04-07T03:48:00.003-05:00

The Radiator Game presents the collision of life and theatre within a vivarium; exposing the spectacle as a game in all its frivolity and seriousness, where ingenuity and absurdity are intensified and time stretched - a fusion of science and culture, psychology and art.

Images - To think about in relation to The Radiator Game

2009-04-07T02:54:00.012-05:00

Here are a few images and links that were mentioned at the meeting:

Joseph Beuys - Coyote: I Like America and America Likes Me

Book on Amazon

Matthew Barney - Cremaster Cycle @ Guggenheim

Alice Aycock - The New & Favorite Game of the Universe and the Golden Goose Egg

Michael Portnoy - Casino Ilinx

Palm Beach Zoo Map

A Carnie Smoking a Cigarette

APAE in Vent Magazine April 2009

2009-04-04T02:46:00.002-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More vent

Check out our feature in this month's Vent Magazine pg 10-11.

2009-04-01T01:54:00.006-05:00

A Centering Action: Rocket Ritual [spiral #1]

2009-03-30T03:44:00.010-05:00

Segments from our First performance A Centering Action: Rocket Ritual on 3.28.09
Directed by: Jeremiah D. Reeves

Main objective: To draw an Archimedean Spiral using a model rocket

APAE Members: Jeremiah D. Reeves, Zion Reeves, Christophre Woods, Kelly Creed, Shane Camfield, Jane R. Fink, Larry Fink, Cynthia Freer

Others in Video:
Gary Emord-Netzley, Annabell & Duke

*Music is: Gorecki - Symphony #3, Op. 36, Symphony Of Sorrowful Songs - 3. Lento - Cantabile Semplice

Messenger-Inquirer SildeShow

2009-03-29T22:02:00.004-05:00

Here's a link to the Messenger-Inquirer SlideShow.

Rocket Performance 3.28.09

2009-03-24T04:26:00.005-05:00

The Rocket Performance is on 3.28.09. This event is free and open to the public. Everyone is welcome to participate by joining in or to simply to watch. Please arrive no later than 6:30pm (spectators). Rain or Shine.

Rocket Performance: A Centering Ritual
Saturday March 28, 2009
12:00pm - 8:30pm
Ann's Farm
6871 State Route 405
Owensboro, KY 42303-9743

For Directions: http://www.mapquest.com/mq/3-zgExeH*1ec2tppqYsuie

Itinerary for Rocket Ritual

03.28.2009

12:00 – 12:14 Arrival

12:15 – 12:59 Set Up

1:00 – 2:29 Dress into Whites / Armor Check / Photo Check

2:30 – 3:59 Rehearsals / Finalize

4:00 – 5:59 Technical Time / Dinner Break [as time allows]

6:00 – 6:44 Preparatory

6:55 [Sunset]

6:45 – 7:44 Action [several times]

7:45 – 8:29 Teardown and Load

8:30 Depart

Rocket Action Biographies

2009-03-20T05:20:00.017-05:00

Action Potential Arts Experiment

A Centering Action: Rocket Ritual

Jeremiah D. Reeves

Recently relocating from New York City to Owensboro, Jeremiah began Action Potential Arts Experiment as an extension of his collaborative work. Jeremiah has exhibited and performed through out New York, most recently at the Ontological-Hysteric Incubator’s Theater and the Whitney; where he was employed. He has taught as a printmaking assistant at Marymount Manhattan College and graduated from Pratt Institute where he received a BFA with honors. However, he says, his favorite thing to do, is spend time with his son; “he is brilliant…he gives me all his, I mean…my best ideas.”

Zion Reeves

When he is not busy with his homework and playing sports, Zion can be found drawing and painting. He also enjoys taking pictures with his digital camera, playing video games online, watching DVDs and listening to his MP3 player. His favorite games are Trouble and Poptropica. His aspirations include becoming a police officer, working in a doctor’s office and living in Africa.

Christophre Woods

Donating his time helping others as the volunteer Executive Director for the Owensboro AIDS Taskforce, Christophre has been actively counseling and educating about AIDS and Suicide prevention the local community for the past 5 years; lecturing at conferences, schools, churches, meetings. He believes that “we live in one community, a global community, and we must make it one fight against the things which threaten us all.” In his spare time, Christophre also: works doing water remediation for a restoration and remodeling company, serves as secretary-treasurer for the Hispanic Alliance of Greater Owensboro, and serves on two national committees. He enjoys singing in a choir.

Kelly Creed

As Barista at the locally owned, The Crème Coffee House, Kelly expresses herself through latte art and subscribes to the axiom: “big ideas, little cups.” Graduating from Brescia University in 2008 with an Integrated Studies in Psychology and Biology Bachelor’s degree, she hopes to return to school in the near future and work with animals. She is currently teaching herself Greek. In her spare time, Kelly can be found in the nearest cemetery snapping photos or at home watching zombie films with her three cats and sugar glider.

Shane Camfield

Showing his collage work and paintings locally in various solo and group shows, Shane hopes to expand his artistic oeuvre, testifying; “My hopes for APAE are that as a group, we can inspire, entrance and otherwise interest people in Owensboro, possibly pushing the envelope of what is accepted as art.” Shane posses a BA in English and Studio Art from Brescia University and in the near future, he plans to publish his poetry and write a novel.

Jane R. Fink

Paper artist and Owensboro native, Jane’s been cutting and pasting paper since receiving her first pair of scissors at age 3. She works in mixed media and has an eclectic array of ongoing projects. Jane studied art at Murray State University and is Creative Services Manager at the Daviess County Public Library. She’s a member of the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, Asheville BookWorks, and The NY Book Arts Center. When not cutting and pasting, she enjoys music, Indie Films, and traveling to see art and hear music.

Larry Fink

Larry was born in Belleville, NJ, but has made Kentucky his home after graduating with a BFA from Murray State University. After moving to Owensboro, Larry became an art teacher, instructing students at the 9-10 Center, Owensboro High School, and Foust Elementary School. For the past 25 years he has been working as a newspaper artist at the Messenger-Inquirer and the Evansville Courier & Press.

Cynthia Freer

Cynthia was born and raised in Kentucky. She enjoys the art of living; learning to love with no restraints and the privilege of creating little bright glimpses of colorful beauty. Cynthia thinks that it's one thing to see a need and talk about a solution, but another thing to be part of that answer. “Potential will lay dormant unless a catalyst sets it into action.” Cynthia hopes that through this experiment, our community can learn to see the beauty in the mundane and that it will open eyes in a positive light. She also hopes that it can inspire humor and a greater sense of self-awareness opening space for change.

the beauty of imperfection

2009-03-13T13:56:00.003-05:00

If someone were to take the time to take a picture of each members face in the group, and match them up symmetrical with the other side, we would be unremarkable. i feel their is something to be said for imperfection. i know i am imperfect and i have no desire to be perfection. thats why i like what the shield and shoes look like, though i may go back and paint my shoes this evening.

Field Chocolate

2009-03-12T22:28:00.001-05:00

FYI: I'm bringing brownies. Ok, maybe they won't be from The Creme, but there will be lots of them.

It's almost T-minus one day!

Jane

Itinerary for Rocket Action - Sat 3.14. 2009

2009-03-05T02:18:00.003-06:00

Below is the schedule for the performance:

Itinerary for Rocket Action

For: Saturday March 14, 2009

12:00 – 12:14 Arrival

12:15 – 12:59 Set-up

1:00 – 2:29 Dress into Armor and Photo Shoot

2:30 – 3:59 Rehearsals/ Finalize

4:00 – 5:59 Tech. time/ Dinner break (as time allows)

6:00 – 6:44 Prep.

6:55 (SUNSET)

6:45 – 7:44 ACTION (several times)

7:45 – 8:29 Teardown and Load

8:30 Depart

Download and Study

2009-03-05T01:59:00.007-06:00

I wanted to post this information, which Kelly quoted in her post (Armor and whatnot. . .) I thought the entire section on Neurons was vital... please download the .pdf and study it. I like the idea that the movements of the performance can be based on these descriptions. What parts do you find meaning in and why? Please post your comments.

Download Here: Neurons
*Excerpt from Brain and Behavior by: Bob Garrett

Armor and whatnot. . .

2009-03-04T23:13:00.003-06:00

For my armor, I plan on using plaster of paris to create a mold of my chest and stomach. I have purchased a metal plate from Goodwill that I'm going to use to create a breastplate. The breastplate will be attached to suspenders to keep it in place. I also have a child's storm trooper mask that I found at Wal-Mart. . . I may put some kind of padding on the inside, since it's made of cheap plastic and likely will not be very durable. I have a pair of white pants, a white t-shirt and I'm going to paint an old pair of tennis shoes white. I am considering painting my arms white but haven't decided yet. I have also considered the option of wearing white shorts instead, and painting my legs white as well, but I know it may be too cold for this to be a reasonable option. In case you're wondering, I do realize that my arms and legs are not going to be well protected, which I feel is an important aspect of my armor. I feel that my armor represents myself in the sense that I try to protect myself from people on an emotional level, yet I'm still vulnerable to the harsh realities of the world. From a biological perspective, I also think it's important that the only areas of my body that will be protected are where vital organs are located. In nature, animals are more likely to survive after damage to an arm or leg, but will likely die if there is severe damage to an organ such as the brain or heart.

I also think it is important for everyone to know what action potential is and how it occurs. These are some notes that I took from an old Biopsychology book that I think might be helpful:

-The action potential is an abrupt depolarization of the membrane that allows the neuron to communicate over long distances.

-The potential across the resting neuron membrane is stored energy. Imagine countless sodium ions being held outside the neuron against the combined forces of the concentration gradient and the electrical gradient. Opening the sodium channels allows the Na+ ions in that area to rush into the axon at a rate 500 times greater than normal; they are propelled into the cell’s interior so rapidly that the movement is often described as explosive.

-Just as abruptly as the neuron “fired,” it begins to recover its resting potential. At the peak of the action potential, the sodium channels close, so there is no further depolarization. About the same time, the potassium channels begin to open. The positive charge inside the membrane and the force of the concentration gradient combine to move K+ ions out; this outward flow of potassium ions returns the axon to its resting potential. The action potential and recovery require about a millisecond (msec, one-thousandth of a second) or so to complete.

-The action potential causes nearby sodium channels to open as well. Thus, a new action potential is triggered right next to the first one. That action potential in turn triggers another farther along, creating a chain of action potentials that move through the axon; thus a signal flows from one end of the neuron to the other. Nothing physically moves down the axon. Instead, a series of events occurs in succession along the axon’s length.

-Action potential operates on the all-or-none law, which means that it occurs at full strength or it does not occur at all. A larger graded potential does not produce a larger action potential; like the fuse of a firecracker, the action potential depends on the energy stored I the neuron. Also, it is non-decremental; it travels down the axon without any decrease in size, propagated anew and at full strength at each successive point along the way.

From my perspective, the name of our group is not just a name at all. It is a process. It has a direct relationship with who we are and we are doing with this project. I also thought this information might help us develop some ideas for movements during the performance.

more about ghosts

2009-03-03T13:53:00.002-06:00

my thought about the mask that i purchased is that it can be nearly purely cosmetic because i intend on making a shield to protect myself from the rocket. the mask is mysterious and expressionless which i feel adds to the overall feel that i want to create. i wanted a paintball mask but budget problems prevented that. so, i will begin work on my shield soon and post what it looks like here. any thoughts?

meeting pics

2009-03-02T23:48:00.002-06:00

The Site

2009-02-26T11:41:00.004-06:00

This is almost a 360° panorama of the site where we will complete the project.

First Meeting

2009-02-26T02:16:00.005-06:00

A few images from our first meeting. There is our rocket, look at him... how cute. Also, an image of an "armor" made from sticks and place-mats.

a couple of thoughts/ ghost

2009-02-25T11:35:00.003-06:00

I dont have a digi-cam so i apologize for the look of the drawing. I was thinking lately more about ghosts as imagery, that the white makes us kind of like spirits. also
i love the idea of the suit being armor for battle. that holds so many different meanings, and thats part of why i am in love with it. ... i may want to still do a shield, and i am thinking of ideas for what the shield could be made out of. also i wanted to document that i feel the rocket represents our lives while the string that binds us is reality and society.

My armor - I think

2009-02-23T13:40:00.005-06:00

Here's what I'm thinking of wearing. The armor part is a carpet sample with a stiff woven backing. I dunno if this is good or not.

A few images to think about

2009-02-20T01:51:00.013-06:00

I wanted to post a few images that I found online for everyone consideration and thoughts.

Wade McDaniel, Rocket Experiment

A cool 3-d graph

Think of how this turntable operates like our rocket performance.

Robert Smithson, Spiral Jetty.

A seizure helmet

Terence Koh, as Andy Warhol.

Terence Koh, performing a ritual for his death.

Marcel Duchamp, Large Glass.

Yves Kline, Leap into the void.

Rauschenberg, Tire Print (detail).

2009-02-19T10:00:00.001-06:00

Ann Stuart says we can use her land (she lives on a large farm) out 144 (actually it's the side road that breaks off of 144).
I have the tire. Taking it to Jeremiah this AM before my meeting. Exciting isn't it??? It is all coming together!!!

First Assignment - A Centering Action: Rocket Performance

2009-02-18T05:29:00.000-06:00

OK...so welcome. Most of you are familiar with the "rocket
piece" (the working title)... if not, briefly:

We are going to draw an Archimedes spiral using model rocket as the drawing medium. It is a performance type art work/event. The rocket will be attached to a string, which is attached to a center. We will launch the rocket parallel to the ground and in theory; it will draw a spiral by wrapping around the center (which is going to be a rim for an automobile).

The only audience will be us, for the most part. We are going to photograph and film it. We haven't really discussed it as a group, so maybe this blog can become that.

I chose it as a first experiment...to get things rolling and spark interest. I also chose this piece because in its conceptual beginnings, i used the phrase "like the winding of a yo-yo; potential power". This happened
to coincide with the name of our group. You will learn that my process of creation is very embedded within itself, meaning that not everything is
initially accounted for... as it is a PROCESS. Things come together by doing them. Much like we are coming together. It is about re-arranging energies to become something. I think of this project as a "centering ritual" - another reason that it is perfect for our beginnings. In many ways, it can be viewed as an aboriginal "dreaming" which is a history; our history.

The symbols themselves are pretty straight forward. The spiral is a kind
of mandala. It is a "kind of fate". It is what it is- this is important to think about if you aren't sure what it means. Simply look at the way that it is functioning to our group...how it engages
us. It is our job to experience this and identify it. We won't know what it means until it begins to mean what it means. I know this sounds vague and you are probably scratching your heads, but bear with me.

a conversation of the symbols leads me to the assignments:

1.) Acquire a suite of Armor.

-it is important to remember that this piece can be dangerous as we don't really know what will happen when we fire the rocket. So i would like everyone to either create a suit of armor or find one. I want you to think of it as actual armor, in case our rocket which travels very fast hits
you. For example, I will be wearing a baseball catcher's outfit. I don't care if you buy it, find it or make it....just design it with that in mind. The only other requirement is that it is all white. This can easily be accomplished with a can of spray paint.

*I want to know everyone's idea for a costume...so post your ideas to this blog, with pictures if you can...or bring it to me...or call me. I will also help out anyone who is having trouble finding ideas. I would like everyone to have this costume within a weeks time.

*** the armor... in being uniform in color, becomes our uniform. It becomes a symbol of our collectivity... as if we were warriors in a battle together. It also speaks of our individuality in being our own selections - as they will be comprised of different forms. Don't forget to protect your head also.

2.) Find a site

i do not know where this is taking place yet...i have ideas, but they involve the guerrilla method of trespassing. if anyone knows anywhere here are the conditions:

a. must be free of "civilization" within the scope of the camera. Meaning, that i want to set up a visual shot of nature only.
b. nearby

Contact the places...and let us know. If we don't use that site, we will bookmark it for future projects.

3.) Documentation resources

if you have any:
a. cameras (film, digital, video...etc)
b. tripods
c. sound recording equipment

let us know! (You can post info here if you like) I have 3 film cameras, 1 digicam and 1 digivideo, but only one tripod, but we need more!

4.) Participate

I don't know exactly when this ritual is going to take place...but it will be soon - within the next month. It will most likely be in 2-3 weeks on the weekend.

Please post all communication on this blog... so it can become documentation. Feel free to comment and post anything you feel as being related... pics, texts, etc. (and when people post...everyone should take the time to research it and know it). I would like to thank all of you so far. I think we have a lot of great things to look forward to with this group. I believe
in all of you...in us.....