Video

Chandelier

Steven Cohen

2001, 16:37 minutes, colour, English

TAPECODE 608.02

Chandelier looks at the disparity of circumstances in South Africa.
The Artist is dressed in an antique French Chandelier reconstructed as a wearable tutu and capable of lighting itself which is then taken to a community of homeless people living in the harshest circumstances in cardboard houses along the railway line of Johannesburg City.
The work explores Europe and Africa, Black and White, Rich and Poor, Safe and Dangerous, 'us' and 'them'.
Unexpectedly, on the Day of the uninvited public intervention, the government workers, the 'Red Ants' Destroy the homeless community settlement, adding a poignant element to the already bizarre and surreal circumstances.
Reactions of the members of the homeless community vary, some are angry, some delighted, some puzzled - one woman sings the National Anthem and decries her circumstances, which is what the work is really about - harsh and bizarre social circumstances of South Africa.

Rental and Sales

Single Screening Rental

$190.00

Educational Purchase DVD (Bluray +$15)

$260.00

5 Year Educational Streaming License, Digital File with DVD Circulation Copy

$550.00

Gallery Exhibition and Installation, complete Media Request form for quote

Institutional Archival Acquisition, complete Media Request form for quote

Curators and programmers, please contact distribution@vtape.org to receive a login and password to preview Vtape titles online.

Screening and exhibition rentals and archival acquisitions include public performance rights; educational purchases or licenses include rights for classroom screenings and library circulation. When placing an order the customer agrees to our general online terms and conditions. Payment (or a purchase order number) and a signed licensing agreement must be received before media can be shipped to the client.

Critical Writing

Rightfully Yours
by David Balzer. EYE WEEKLY, Dec. 26, 2007.