Acute

2003
Williamson, Aaron
In Acute a normal film convention is reversed as a deaf performer – Aaron Williamson – acts as a hearing character. Reminiscent of the 'fugitive' or 'tourist in- distress' film genre, he hides out in a labyrinthine and derelict Italian castle. The centrepiece of the film is one unedited six-minute take in which Williamson is locked in a tortuous pact with Philip Ryder’s chasing camera. Ryder has limited use of his hands and is evolving a 'hands-free cinema'. Here he hugs the camera to his chest throughout the chase. As in a child's game, Williamson must choose either a noisy run from the camera/threat or hold his breath to be silent and hidden. His imagined sense of hearing is the motor of action.
  • Artwork Details: running time: 8 minutes
  • Edition: 2 of 5
  • Material description: DVD
  • Credit line: © aaronwilliamson & Philip Ryder
  • Theme:
  • Medium: Film and Audio Visual
  • Accession number: ACC3/2004

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The Arts Council Collection is the UK's most widely seen collection of modern and contemporary art.

With more than 8,000 works by over 2,000 artists, it can be seen in exhibitions and public displays across the country and beyond. This website offers unprecedented access to the Collection, and information about each work can be found on this site.