“Spinnte-Spänne” is a site-specific interdisciplinary performance by artist Kristin Bauer that synthesizes gestural movement, constructed sound and an exploration of the eternal feminine.
Each iteration of “Spinne” draws inspiration from the site, cosmological time and the artist’s personal connection to the location, while also considering the broader context of the moment. “Spinnte-Spänne,” the latest iteration, takes its title from the etymology of the word “spider,” derived from the Proto-Germanic root spinnan, meaning “to spin.” Combining the present and past tense of the verb, the title translates loosely as “spin, spun.” It suggests an action occurring in the present while existing beyond fixed time, followed by a reflection on completion.
This performance explores the shadow symbolism of the spider, encompassing themes of creation and destruction. Weaving and web-spinning serve as metaphors for depth meditation. Mirroring the erratic patterns of a black widow’s web, Bauer uses caution tape to create an intricate design within the delineated center of the space, set against a shadowy, chromatic light-scape. Silent, repetitive movements reflect the tension between opposites, embodying an exploration of the roles of captor and captive.
An atmospheric sound piece created by Bauer accompanies the performance. It adapts chords from Danzig’s “Mother” and layers them with field recordings from the ASU Art Museum grounds and the artist’s studio neighborhood in San Francisco.
“Spinnte-Spänne” is a meditation on themes of being, becoming and experiencing motherhood. Developed for the closing reception of “Notes on Motherhood,” the piece symbolically engages with the ASU Art Museum’s architecture, which embodies dualities of interior and exterior, passage and destination, and descent and ascent. The space evokes the essence of earth, shadow, cave and womb, creating a reflective and immersive experience for viewers.
This event runs 5:30 -7:00 p.m.
Registration: https://na.eventscloud.com/spinntespanne
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