Video, DVD, Mini DV, 3:23 min, 4:3, sound, 2006
This video performance presents the artist Roland Wegerer as he attempts to enter the water, exploring it as a potential new habitat. The act is not merely a physical endeavor but also a metaphorical exploration, reflecting Wegerer’s ongoing interest in pushing the boundaries of human experience and adaptability. Due to his anatomical characteristics as a human being, it is impossible for him to remain submerged for an extended period. This inherent limitation highlights the absurdity and futility of the attempt, emphasizing the tension between aspiration and physical reality.
The sense of absurdity and failure in these attempts is further intensified by the artistic decision to turn the video upside down. This inversion not only disorients the viewer but also challenges conventional perceptions, inviting us to reconsider our understanding of space, gravity, and orientation. In doing so, Wegerer creates an immersive and thought-provoking experience that is characteristic of his broader body of work in contemporary media art and performance.
