Body Form Test: An Interactive Installation Through Social Practice

Body Form Test from Stephen Surlin on Vimeo.

Body Form Test by Stephen Surlin & Michael Ngo

Stephen placing the body form.

The project was an attempt to engage with the often apathetic Windsor community. Especially their aversion to the “homeless” and the ability to ignore a problem that is often so obvious, while remaining hidden, elusive or difficult to engage with. We received several mixed and intense responses to the work.

We were heavily influenced by the interventionist street artist, Mark Jenkins, and his public sculpture work. The subjects/characters represented in his works often possess a grotesque and ambiguous quality, often dealing with distinct social tensions or taboos.

It was our intention to interact with the public and receive an illicit response, possibly triggered by strong emotion. We received threats of violence and words of encouragement.

Filmed in Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Creation: Stephen Surlin & Michael Ngo, Film: Stephen Surlin, Photography: Michael Ngo, Music: Aphex Twin – Father

The variety of reactions were part of the goal. Michael and I had the opportunity to talk to several people about their uniqie connection to people in need. From a person who works in health care to a miner form Alberta and their awareness of people with addiction, including himself.
Photo by Michael Ngo 2011

Photo by Michael Ngo 2011

Photo by Michael Ngo 2011

Photo by Michael Ngo 2011

Photo by Michael Ngo 2011

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