Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.
Vilém Flusser's "Towards a Philosophy of Photography" delves into the nature of photography as a technical image, distinct from traditional art forms. Flusser argues that photography's technical aspects shape our perception and understanding of reality. He explores the impact of technological mediation on our experience of the world, emphasizing the role of the camera and its influence on how we see and interpret images. The book challenges traditional notions of artistic creation and authorship in the context of technological reproduction. Flusser's work remains highly relevant in discussions about the relationship between technology, image-making, and the construction of reality. His insights continue to inspire critical analyses of visual culture in the digital age.
On the occasion of Loretta Fahrenholz’s exhibition “A Coin From Thin Air” at Amant in Brooklyn, Carly Busta and artist/writer Jak Ritger discuss art making, AI, and value in a time of infinite content.
02:45 - Intro by Amant chief curator, Tobi Maier
05:00 - Carly gives context on Fahrenholz’s practice
15:00 - Jak x Carly discuss the show’s works & themes
36:50 - Q&A feat. Joshua Citarella, Dena Yago, Gideon Jacobs, Anika Jade Levy, Brian Droitcour, Dru Ritger, and Peter Fend, among others
Exhibition Guide: Loretta Fahrenholz “A Coin From Thin Air”
https://dcld85wa7rf0u.cloudfront.net/api/file/5ZatFCPRhKKTUQjpYsxP
Watch: Loretta Fahrenholz, Trash The Musical (2023, HD, 37 min)
https://vimeo.com/1046803248
Courtesy of Reena Spaulings Fine Art
This talk took place on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at Amant.
https://www.amant.org/exhibitions/95-loretta-fahrenholz-a-coin-from-thin-air
The exhibition remains on view through February 16, 2025.
Episode image: courtesy K8 Howl
New Models 