Magnetic North : Canadian Experimental Video

Abstract

A major anthology published on the occasion of the video programme “Magnetic North” (2000), a cross-border collaboration curated by Lion for the Walker Art Centre (Minneapolis) and Video Pool Inc. (Winnipeg). The video programme included 40 tapes (produced between 1971 and 2000) by 47 artists, which were presented in a series of screenings that addressed the following themes: the body inscribed by time, disease or experience; the possibilities of the medium; the performance of self/identity; the spectacularity/banality of everyday life; conflict expressed in the flesh; explorations of self-disclosure, voyeurism and surveillance. The anthology contains an introductory text by Lion, critical essays by four authors, an historical essay by P. Gale, 14 short texts (by artists and writers from Canada and the U.S.) and two transcribed dialogues. The following issues and concerns are considered in response to the production and dissemination of experimental video in Canada: the role of artist-run centres; videos’ relation to the museum; issues of body, voice and narrative; relationships between fiction/reality and language/the body; food and the everyday; First Nations experimental film/video; the indigenous aesthetics; and video production in Quebec. Includes programme listing. Listing of Canadian artist-run centres and distributors that focus on video. Biographical notes on artists and authors. Circa 110 bibl. ref