"Rhythm Nation: Edra Soto"
2003-10-31 until 2003-11-29
Polvo Art Studio
Chicago, IL, USA United States of America

Rhythm Nation: a multimedia experience created by Chicago-based artist Edra Soto examines the dubious presentation of current events by the media that manipulate the priorities of our times. Conflict, inconformity, and disorientation comprise the visual disjunction of these pieces. Folkloric, traditional, and conceptual languages, along with precarious and invented technologies, are the predominant aesthetic influences of this installation.

Using the Halloween vernacular as an anchor for the development of this composition, a series of analogies occur: Witches are surgical knife addicts, the war doesnít account in Iraq, and fictional characters play real people and vice versa.

On opening night October 31 from 6 to 10pm, a live performance act will occur. This will consist of three parts: a rock drummer, a chain smoker, and a stationary bike exerciser. Their actions will become an integral part of the installation, creating an environment of perpetual movement. This performance is reflective of the non-progressive aspects of our culture.

Edra Soto was born in Puerto Rico. She graduated from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with a Masters degree in 2000 and attended the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture the same year. She is currently working as a high school art teacher for Chicago Public Schools.

Related Links:

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