The photographer's name for most of the above photographs is Al Overdrive.
I went to visit the RCA students union exhibtion and performances that raised questions about how gender, sex, embodiment and how the real are constructed, participated in and performed within society. The aim of the project was to explore 'how art and design can provide a unique understanding of each strand of human rights that is beyond existing policy or sociological knowledge' (http://rcasu.com/section/diverse-rca/gender-and-performance-exhibition-and-symposium). The exhibition featured various media such as video, sculptural, photographic and performance works by Oreet Ashery, Franko B’s sculpture of a swing 'I’m Thinking Of You' and Ralf Obergfell’s photographs complemented by Tony Horneckers installation ‘peep booths’ forming 'Beautiful Freaks' installation.
The group of contemporary artists provided a unique and energetic display of personal ideas dealing with bodily issues.
I was struck by this exhibition, it was lively yet silent and thought provoking. The various different 'attractions' kept your head spinning with thoughts and ideas. I particularly liked Ralf Oberfell's colourful photographs. They reminded me of David Lachappelle. What I was drawn to most were the real life characters depicted, their real lives. A vibrant life portrayed with a splash of oddness catching the observers attention and raising the observers curiosity. Also the 'Peep Booths' were quite enchanting and terrifying at the same time: that feeling that you want to look but know its not a pretty sight! Curiosity getting the better of you.
I enjoyed the interaction and live performances, as well as live actors/show people in the booths. Raised ideas about the body/body parts becoming spectacles - that you can alter the way one is seen and understood.
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