Rodney Graham "Reverie"

From: The Museum of Contemporary Art
Limited Edition: 27
Exhibition: Rodney Graham: A Little Thought
Material: Printed 2-ply vinyl
Dimensions: 35" x 95" (88cm x 241cm)

Hanging Hardware Included

 

Description

Graham’s 2003 film, “A Reverie Interrupted by the Police”, features the artist in black and white striped prison togs. Seated at a piano, he taps out an atonal tune replete with silent pauses. He glances nervously over his shoulder from time to time at the policeman behind him, and his performance is ultimately cut off when the prison guard leads him off the stage. The 8-minute film plays in a continuous loop.

This banner features a still from “A Reverie Interrupted by the Police” with the main character seated at an upright piano. The convict plays the piano solemnly, his hands cuffed. The image has a striking interplay between the black and white stripes of Graham's prison uniform, and the alternating black and white of the piano keys. Known for his nonlinear, repetitive video works, Graham’s circular narratives, whimsical references to pop culture, and self-effacing humor can be mesmerizing.

A red band above the image encloses text that reads, “RODNEY GRAHAM/JULY 25 – NOV 29, 2004/MOCA THE GEFFEN CONTEMPORARY” in black and white lettering. Both sides of the banner are identical. Another banner promoting the exhibition features a still from Graham’s 1997 film, Vexation Island.

Provenance

These banners were displayed around Los Angeles to promote the exhibition "Rodney Graham: A Little Thought," held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles’s Geffen Contemporary location from July 25 through November 29, 2004. The exhibition was also seen in Toronto at the Art Gallery of Ontario, in Vancouver at the Vancouver Art Gallery, and at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia.

About the Artist 

Learn more about Rodney Graham