07/01/2013
Hey everyone. We're trying something new this weekend. On First Friday, we're hosting a dance party. After making the rounds downtown, come shake your ass in our basement. Details to follow!
In addition, we will play host to a visual artist Saturday evening named Stefan Gruber. Please spread the word, as we've never done anything outside of the realm and are excited to begin using the space for all sorts of new and exciting projects. Here's a little more info about Stefan:
Experimental Animator Stefan Gruber to Tour Summer 2013
SEATTLE, Wash. – April 8, 2013 – Stefan Gruber will bring his live experimental animation performance across the US and Canada this summer. His three-part act includes live animation, a live voice performance, and an entertaining array of audience interaction that is rarely seen elsewhere in the world of animation. Gruber has toured since 2008 and is currently seeking venues for his summer 2013 performances. He plans to leave Seattle on July 1, 2013 for a US route to New York with a return trip through the Canadian Territories.
The show begins with an interactive introduction in which he draws a “psychic portrait.” He invites a member of the audience to sit with him for an oracular reading. Throughout the reading, Gruber draws a seemingly abstract animation. This comes together as a cohesive piece when the series is replayed at the end of the session. Says Gruber, “It’s like [I’m] drawing out the other person’s core attributes, making that person’s world totally visible to both of us for a little while.” This segment is a way to show how ordinary a psychic connection can be, and the accompanying animation is a wonderfully unconventional introduction.
Next, Gruber provides a menu of his short films. The audience has the opportunity to select the works that they would like to see. The menu is a near-comprehensive list of Gruber’s animation and film, including some pieces that are paired with live voice performances by Gruber and some that require the audience to pitch in with their own voices.
Finally, Gruber ends the performance with a finale piece, showcasing some of his most recent animation. Depending on the formality of the venue, he offers a Q&A session or the opportunity to have an organic discussion.
Stefan Gruber is an American experimental animator and performance artist from Seattle.
He creates one hand-drawn, digitally finished experimental animation short per year and tours during the summer. Gruber is founder and teacher of the Animation Department at
the Nova Animation Project and founder of Seattle Experimental Animation Team (SEAT).
One of Gruber's popular films
'Anaelle' http://stefangruber.com/anaelle
A recent film
Both Worlds
http://vimeo.com/m/60976680
And an interview:
http://vimeo.com/m/60969256
