Eli Sudbrack of assume vivid astro focus works on his painting Cyclops Small Dick Donut Hat Three Boobs (2014) in his Queens, NY studio. Production still from the series ART21 Exclusive. © ART21, Inc. 2014. Cinematographer: John Marton.
“I wanted to make paintings because…I can actually be more spontaneous.” —Eli Sudbrack of assume vivid astro focus
Today’s ART21 Exclusive features artists Eli Sudbrack and Christophe Hamaide-Pierson, the principal members of the collective assume vivid astro focus, discussing their first paintings on canvas, on view at The Suzanne Geiss Company through June 21. In this new body of work they continue to reference the transgender figure—a symbol for the idea that “somebody can transform their body at their will,” which as Sudbrack says, “is an act of freedom.” Best known for creating dense and colorful installations that incorporate sculpture, wallpaper, music, and performance, Sudbrack and Hamaide-Pierson typically invite artists and friends to collaborate with them, but decided not to for this project. Sudbrack explains why, saying that painting creates an opportunity for spontaneity and concentration, without the distraction of production concerns that accompany their large-scale installations.
Exclusive is supported, in part, by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council; 21c Museum Hotel, and by individual contributors.
CREDITS: Producer: Ian Forster. Consulting Producer: Wesley Miller & Nick Ravich. Interviewer: Ian Forster. Camera: John Marton. Sound: Ian Forster. Editor: Morgan Riles. Artwork Courtesy: assume vivid astro focus & The Suzanne Geiss Company. Additional Photography Courtesy: assume vivid astro focus & Edouard Fraipont. Theme Music: Peter Foley.
