Robert Ladislas Derr
In Play, 2007 - 2011
In Play is a project that I began in 2007 of ping-pong recorded with video and photography with artists and writers of influence or like-mindedness. The ping-pong takes form through photography, as I photograph the artist or writer and he or she photographs me. Using a plain black backdrop and even lighting, the photographs emphasize the characteristics of each person’s face. I then select the photograph of the artist or writer and me with similar directions in gaze and expression, and combine the two photographs into one. While the photographs capture the characteristics of the face, the act of ping-pong reveals a transparency, as each player concentrates on the task rather than practicing his or her own etiquette toward the lens. Using ping-pong, the cross-fertilization of the art world is epitomized. In Play highlights the interconnectivity of history, artists, writers, and ideas in the world of art.
Vito Acconci, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Vicki Goldberg, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Terry Barrett, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Martha Buskirk, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Erwin Wurm, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Peter Garfield, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2007
Gary Metz, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2008
Cal Kowal, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2008
William Anastasi, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2008
Patty Chang, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2009
Dan Graham, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2009
Dennis Oppenheim, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2009
Michael Snow, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2009
Marcy B Freedman, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2010
Kate Gilmore, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2010
Thomas Zummer, color digital print, 14" x 42", 2011
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