Paul Grimmer (UK)
Looking from a distance
Looking from a distance features two recent moving image works, Without Mind (2011) and Changeling (2010). Both pieces focus on movement in a contemplation of beauty, time, memory and transformation. These two video works are connected by a tension between the sense of intimacy and detachment in the handling of the subject, which in each case is a solo performer. In each work the movement has been digitally altered through editing processes, foregrounding our ways of looking and the weaving of possible psychological narratives.
Without Mind (2011) was developed through a cross-generational collaboration with the artist’s 80 year old Grandfather, who has practiced and taught the martial art of Karate for over 25 years and holds a black belt 3rd dan grade. Karate training involves the repeated practice of specific movement phrases or kata (form) until they can be performed without thought and with a clear mind, free from fear, anger and ego, a state known as Mushin. The work focuses on 3 of the advanced kata routines forming an intimate portrait of memory and capturing the skill, power, agility and focus involved in the discipline. Conventional assumptions of age and deterioration are also questioned as the work unfolds, dissecting time, slowing to reveal the detail of each movement. Familiar representations of the aging body are subverted to reveal a body that is strong, dynamic, monumentally present, dancing an intricate dance with an invisible opponent.
Changeling (2010) makes reference to the highly symmetrical structure and geometry of viruses and their transformative power. The work also references the symbolism associated with alchemy and the alchemical opus, repeating forms in nature, sacred geometry and architecture. Here, the artist’s own body has been physically and digitally transformed altering the image of the body, even further pushing it into abstraction. As this unfamiliar body moves in and out of focus suspended in space it is glimpsed not seen, it is taken apart, re-ordered and replicated into new and exotic forms in a meditation on beauty, perfection and difference.
Paul Grimmer was born in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1975 and studied Fine Art at Northumbria University. Since 2005 he has worked as an artist as well as coordinating events with live art organisation Platform North East and collaboratively setting up Piggyback Arts. He often works in collaboration and has spent time engaging with research in a number of scientific institutions/organisations in the UK. His moving image, installation and performance work explores the biological and psychological, focusing on gaps in understanding, tensions between opposing forces and the fluid nature of identity. Recent exhibitions include: ‘Changeling’ (Globe Gallery, North Shields), ‘Triparks’ (UK touring group exhibition) and screenings in the UK, USA and Europe of ‘Continuum’, a 360° video work made specifically for viewing in Planetariums. Paul Grimmer currently lives and works in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Changeling was developed during residencies with the Medical Research Council Virology Unit, (Glasgow), Allenheads Contemporary Arts (Northumberland) and Dance City (Newcastle upon Tyne). Developed with support from Arts Council England and Globe Gallery (Newcastle upon Tyne). Without Mind was developed during a residency with Dance City (Newcastle upon Tyne) and with support from Arts Council England.
Thanks to: Nick Able (Nick Able Music), Ewelina Aleksandrowicz & Andrzej Wojtas (Hacksquad), James Froment (Dance City), David Bhella (MRC), Jo Brossman (Arachnae Designs), Satinder Chumber, Tom Cullen (ArtAV), Wendy Erickson, George Grimmer, Kyle Heslop, Michelle Hirschhorn, John Smith and Fiona Wright.
