Concept

Issue the Margins v2 is a participatory video installation that explores the ways
contested space can produce alternate temporary communities that surround its use.
Taking the monthly and contestational bike ride, Critical Mass, as its inspiration and
primary source of content, the installation engages the public in and with space by
recognizing the physical and material conditions of viewing in the completion of the
work. The work, in turn, exists as a structured dialogue: the viewer is asked to manage
the material constraints of the space and the fluctuating social landscape to create the
conditions of it’s viewing. Like the Critical Mass bike ride itself, the installation requires a
two-way negotiation: one that is internal and goal-oriented; another that is external and
maintenance-oriented.

Installation Description

The installation of Issue the Margins v2 will consist of two (2) video projectors pointed
towards an open space consisting of two poles (possibly telephone poles), with a cable
run between them about 10 to 20 feet above the ground. Participants will be asked to
help construct a projection screen by throwing rolls of paper (see material selection)
over the cable. Over time, as the cable reaches its own critical mass, the video
projections will become visible on the participant-created screen. The keystoning of the
projectors will cause the video to appear at different projection angles as the projector
attempts to find its bearings on the makeshift screen.

See image page for mockups.

Video and Audio Collection

Over the course of several months, videos will be collected from Critical Mass rides in
Atlanta, GA. The video is obtained by mounting small digital video cameras on the front,
back, or either side of several bikes within a monthly ride. Along with video, synced
audio is also recorded. As a record of the ride, each video and audio track shows the
individual and internal experience of being part of a contest of urban space. In this
footage, one gains insight into the characteristic spontaneity and conflict of the event.
The collection of videos–multiple perspectives over multiple months–illustrates the
changing shape, attitude, and tenor of these characteristic elements.

After the collection process is complete, the videos will be compiled into two (2) video
projections, each of which will feature two (2) selected views of various rides. Each
video of the compiled projections will play as real-time loop (approx. two (2) hours).
Along with the video projections will be a synchronized master audio track.

Location Requirements

The installation is adaptable to different locations. Ideally, the location would have either
two supporting structure such as two building or two telephone poles for a cable to be
run between. Alternatively, the installation could be adapted to work over a tall fence
or other existing structure. The only other requirement of the location is that it is near
pedestrian traffic as the piece aims to disrupt the flow of people through space as the
screen is created.

Electrical Requirements

The installation will require power for two portable low energy NEC projectors with a
power requirement of 100 – 240VAX, 50/60Hz.

Material Selection

The primary material for the piece are rolls of paper similar to toilet paper. The rolls of
paper will be created from gluing together strips of old newspapers and discarded office
paper in an effort to reduce waste and keep the project sustainable. The rolls will be
created prior to the event through the accumulated effort of many individuals. A hidden
portion of Issue the Margins v2 is the creation of a network of people who will aid in the
material construction of these rolls. Just as the actual rides can only be accomplished
through collective action, here the viewing of the rides require the same collected effort
behind the scenes. These networks will be constructed through gatherings around the
construction of these rolls (food and drink will be provided; see miscellaneous in line-
item budget). Following the event, the paper will be recycled.

as part of blackmetalrobotdeath