NIKKI HOROWITZ IP

PERSONAL PROJECTIONS is a collaborative multimedia installation analyzing memories of seven diverse students. Using LCD projection interaction on their bodies and skin, each video vignette explores an aspect of their identity. These scenes range from stereotypical expectations, gender roles, horrific events, and secretive experiences. PERSONAL PROJECTIONS displays intimate subject matter at monumental scales, making the cherished memories very public. The audience enters the stage, stimulated by fields of colored light and composed soundscapes that support each scenes imagery. 

The show went wonderfully, I got great reviews and positive feedback. We even sold out the free show. Everyone seemed to be impressed with the visuals, composition, and soundscapes.  Photos courtesy of the Duderstadt Video Studio and Mona McKinstry. 

PERSONAL PROJECTIONS sixth scene, “Rivalry” is about the manipulation that occurs in friendships, especially in the dance industry. Sheli and Maddy choreographed a dance exploring the changes you go through in a friendship, from trust and dependency, to manipulation and greed. This was filmed on green screen and then re-projected onto their bodies in a dance studio. The sound and movements exemplifies the animalistic nature that occurs in the entertainment industry and workplace.  Here’s a video still. 

In the last scene, “Detach” from PERSONAL PROJECTIONS, Ryan alludes to the feeling of being detached from the group and entranced during an acid trip. I chose this as the closing point because it’s calm dronning quality allows the viewer’s mind to rest. We explore Ryan’s experience in fetal position with an overlay of his blank face on top of his body. The distorted caricatured is juxtaposed with electronic trance music.  Here are some video stills. 

PERSONAL PROJECTIONS scene “Princess” pokes fun out of societies disapproval and fear of manly women and feminine men. We chose to shoot in woman’s dressing room using the vanity lights and clothing rack as a way to interact with the environment. Larissa wore frilly undergarments and I overlaid magazine images of male models onto her body tricking the mind into what is real and a new layer. I chose to create a disconcerting, strange remix of the introduction of Snow Whites “A Smile and A Song” due to its theme of the struggles with being accepted and high pitched female vocals. The repetitious manner is similar to the scenes before and after, however provides a fun, whimsical break for the audience.  Here are some video stills from this scene. 

PERSONAL PROJECTIONS scene “Break” explores a car crash Caty experienced during a leisurely drive on spring break. She explained, “I vividly remember time moving so slowly and having one hundred thoughts, I was positive I was going to die.” Here we see a car driving down the road on Caty’s back, to portray physical pain and story through the line of her backbone. I reshot this scene with Caty’s movements a bit slower, to show time moving in slow motion. We used the sound of screeching tires and a crash to display the impact of the event, while the ringing noise indicates the aftermath. Here are some video stills from the scene. 

PERSONAL PROJECTIONS scene “Homes” explores performer, Hojo’s complicated upbringing and nationality through the strange scenes and familiar faces from the five different cities she grew up in. For example, we see her Korean passport where she was born, but has not lived for years.  I overlayed traditional makeup from Singapore, a sterotype she had to face. The Duomo in Milan was a landmark Hojo remembers distinctly through children’s laughter.  The Israeli army alludes to the dangers her friends are facing.  Although the audience might not know the backstories, it will be interesting to see how they interpret it.  These videos will be played one after another, as if she is moving from place to place; similar to her childhood.  Here are some video stills from the final piece! 

Another sneak peek—- video still of Kellan Kryak which will be projected about 18 ft tall.  Come see PERSONAL PROJECTIONS APRIL 14 & 15 at 7pm in the Duderstadt Video Studio.   (Open dress April 13th at 6 and 7:30!!)

Heres the facebook event: http://bit.ly/25Fshh2

Been spending a lot of time in the editing room… My eyes are ready to fall out. Get ready for some interesting footage people.

I got my thesis postcards today!!! It’s crunch time… only one month until the show!  Send me your address if you would like one… I think they look pretty snazzy.