Project for a Revolution
Video, 3:15 min loop, 2000
A photocopier produces a pile of white pages while a group of students silently gather in a classroom, looking at each other, waiting for any move and avoiding eye contact. Billing’s piece is made in reference to the introductory sequence of Antonioni’s film “Zabriskie Point” (1969) that shows revolutionary debate among students and a ‘call to arms’ in a university. Inspired by the Latin root of the word “revolution” – “revolutio”, meaning “to turn around” or “roll back”, Billing employs the format of the loop, placing the film in a historical timeline, but at the same time keeping it in a constant and ongoing present, highlighting the feeling of being stuck in a cycle, or of not being able to break out of a preconceived or nostalgic image of how revolutionary engagement should appear. The room is full of tension and unrest and an underlying energetic – but still introverted – activity. In this way, the film could be seen as a catalyst, implying that actual discussion perhaps does no longer use already tested formats but is in the process of finding a different set up or system.
Artist's Bio:
Lives in Stockholm and works with video, film, and performance. Recent solo exhibitions include ”I’m Gonna Live Anyhow until I Die”, The Mac, Belfast (2012), “I’m Lost without your Rhythm”, Modern Art Oxford, (2010), ”Tiny Movements, ACCA, Melbourne, ”I’m lost without your rhythm, Camden Art Centre (2009), ”Taking Turns”, Kemper Museum, Kansas City; ”This is How We Walk On The Moon”, Malmö Konsthall, Malmö (2008). She has participated in survey shows such as 4th Auckland Triennial, ”Last Ride in a Hot Balloon”, Auckland (2010), Documenta 12, Kassel (2007); Singapore Biennale (2006), 9th Istanbul Biennial; 1st Moscow Biennale (2005) and 50th Venice Biennale (2003).