Flying Formation, 2014

FF Header

FF-insta_iphoneAn exhibition on Instagram

Lately I’ve been interested in pursuing new routes of engagement in my creative output. Changing up not only my art-making activity, but also reconsidering my standards of presentation and promotion.

When I started making these digital collages of “found” images (taken from Google searches and friends’ Facebook and Instagram feeds), I knew they would be presented only digitally. I did not want to make another precious thing for sale.

Eventually I chose my Instagram feed as the right exhibition space, and would, as a sort of durational performance, post the images over the course of two hours during Seattle’s First Thursday Art Walk. Following contemporary standards, I encouraged people to check it out with a Facebook event, but excluded any telling information and images. #gabbo

When the evening came, I got myself setup at a favorite bar where, lit blue by iPhone and Macbook, I posted an image. Every ten minutes, I composed another—using Instagram’s filters and editor to finish each piece.

(mainlining the secret truths of the universe)

(mainlining the secret truths of the universe)

People engaged in the set actively as I posted. In my home feed, the images mixed with shots of other work, tangible work, lining the walls of proper art spaces.

I drank two whiskey-gingers and ate a plate of fries with garlic aioli.

flying

flying

is

is

learning

learning

how

how

to

to

throw

throw

yourself

yourself

at

at

the

the

ground

ground

and

and

miss.

miss.

When I wrapped things up with the final title image, I closed my computer and put away my phone. Still alone at the bar, I felt newly connected to my art and community, rejuvenated and altogether satisfied with a successful project.

(thank you for joining me)

(thank you for joining me)

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