Mark v. Mark Opening Reception

Fri, Apr 21
6-9pm
FREE

MARK LEE MORRIS AT MISSION 17
MARK V. MARK RUNS THROUGH MAY 24, 2006
OPENING RECEPTION FRIDAY, APRIL 21, 6-9PM

In this body of new photographic and video work, Mark Lee Morris
tackles identity and the psychology of self-reflection, by depicting
himself in multiplicity as his own opponent, partner, witness, lover,
or some combination thereof.

In two videos, he employs the conventions of the television game show
to compete against himself - one involving an attempt to win a date
with himself. The videos are absurd send ups, which mock the
artificial enthusiasm of television and degenerate at times into
crude obscenities. But this ridiculousness is simultaneously
piognant as a study in disappointment, shame, and limitation.

In a third video, Morris competes with himself in a pocker match,
bluffing himself, trying to read his own expression, and narrating
the drama of the game in a voice-over. The piece begs the question,
"Where is the locus of identity?" Through body language, the players
stage the diverse attitudes we adopt towards ourselves, and confirm
that at least part of our character is inherently unchangeable.

And in a series of photographs, Morris attempts to capture the grace
and movement of a professional dancer. Again, he depicts himself in
multiplicity in several poses: Mark lifting Mark, Mark catching Mark,
Mark balancing Mark. He plays his own counterpart, his equal, his
safety, and his own crowd to get lost in. Is this self-consciousness
or merely narcissism as its substitute?

Gallery Hours: Tuesday 3 - 6pm, Saturday 2 - 5pm or by appointment:
415.336.2349
Address: 2111 Mission St., suite 401 - on the corner of Mission and
17th St., in the old "17 Reasons Why!" building.
www.mission17.com/

Venue:

MISSION 17
2111 Mission St., suite 401
San Francisco
415 4020827
www.mission17.org

On the corner of Mission and 17th St., in the old "17 Reasons Why!"
building.

Additional Info:


www.mission17.org