Images and Illusions

‘Now, you must remember the enemy has only images and illusions behind which he hides his true motives. Destroy the image, and you will break the enemy.’ Bruce Lee (Enter the Dragon). Art is about images, objects and words, but in this project we’re highlighting how culture uses this ‘trinity’ to propagate and perpetuate power. We’re also revealing the symbolism of a ‘degree’, and how this ties in with the ritualistic nature of hierarchical society. The black robes and cap (black cube), are Masonic and related to Saturn worship, and institutionalised educational systems are ultimately tied to capitalism. The film also projects the theories of art into the wider context of life. For our Degree show, we used our ‘Images and Illusions’ film as a video installation piece, with the above quote on the entrance door. The environment consisted of all walls, including the ceiling and floor, being covered in mirror roll to give the illusion of infinity and transcendence. Therefore the ability to influence and encourage change within that manipulated reality was suggested, because the space includes the viewer as part of the reflection(s) literally, as well as them ‘reflecting’ on the work metaphorically. Questioning the nature of the so called enemy was also evoked. The changing slideshow film was also reflected, in which ‘images as illusions’ was highlighted, thus referencing Bruce Lee’s philosophy. These reflections in all directions also symbolise many degrees and levels, both laterally and ‘as above so below’. The fine line between art and life with their degrees, levels and complimentary polarities was delivered.