...as if a forest

Dmitry Strakovsky' s installation ...as if a forest began with a performance: the artist read a nonsensical IKEA-like ten step assembly set of instructions for generation of an aural experience of a forest. Each step is "performed" and sampled via custom multi-channel software. Remixed and looped, the sounds will play through speakers hung on vine-like chords throughout the exhibition space. Video of the performance was added to complete the experience for the duration of the exhibition. Strakovsky's installation highlighted the illusionistic nature of processes involved in "experience delivery," the fluidity of the audience members' perceptions and choices, and the simultaneous construction/deconstruction of the sound experience begun during the performance phase.