The Flatpack Film Festival continues to redefine and expand the definition of film, treating audiences to a performance like no other by Los Angeles-based artist Miwa Matreyek.
Performer and digital artist Matreyek combines stunning animation with the art of movement, cleverly using a projection of her silhouette to interact with her creations through a series of interactive manoeuvres. After performing her solo-silhouette show at the prestigious Sundance Festival earlier this year, it appears Matreyek seemingly astounded audiences and critics alike with this masterful production.
‘The World Made Itself’ is a compelling piece, highlighting the serenity and the wonder of Planet Earth in all its splendorous dynamism. In its UK premier, Matreyek’s imaginative offering also features an excerpt from her 2010 project Myth and Infrastructure, a beautifully scenic tale about the cycles of existence and regeneration at the very root of nature and society.
Transiency of time is extremely prevalent within this quirky piece, whilst the emblematic contrast of light and darkness building tension at the peak of the action and serenity in still places.
Matreyek brings her animations to life with charging vivacity with the use of emotive music from distinctive artists including Anna Oxygen, Flying Lotus and some of her own compositions.
The artist’s movements are fairly simple (with no semblance to Cirque de Soleil performances) yet effective. Her graceful movement in the shadows enhance her graphic artistry, both intricate and astounding - a superior model to something that one might attempt at science museum. We are drawn in by the prospect of authority and power to create something distinct and personal. Matreyek ceases her opportunity, using her art as a platform to express her philosophies of humanity, arguably posing as Mother Nature.
With very few artistic pieces to compare with, ‘The World Made Itself’ epitomises modern art. The surreal, sixty-minute montage is free from explanation or any form of legitimacy. The story swings loosely on a short string of trippy and somewhat enigmatic skits. Often, the success of art is measured by the ability to move an audience than their ability to make them understand. On this basis, Matreyek deserves to be celebrated.
