Some ways are bound to be the wrong ways
2021 | HD Video, wood and formica | 3’14” | Variable dimensions
Some ways are bound to be the wrong ways shows the inherent relationship between abstraction and danger. In the video a voiceover gives examples of abstract shapes and ideas that caused misunderstandings or even accidents. The voiceover for example recounts a scene from the film Mon Oncle in which Jacques Tati causes several mishaps when he's confronted with a modern kitchen that he doesn't recognise as such.
In the video a man in a blue work coat inserts wooden objects into holes. These objects are based on actual probes and gauges that inspectors use to check the safety of playground equipment. They are therefor abstract objects that in fact are designed to prevent danger.
“So at some point Monsieur Hulot just tries different ways to use the kitchen. And that’s also when things go amiss. Because of course some of these ways are bound to be the wrong ways. In quick succession Hulot burns his hand, drops a teapot, breaks a glass and almost hurts his hand again when a cupboard suddenly closes automatically.”
Realized with the support of Arti et Amicitiae and Mondriaan Fonds
Camera, light and color grading: Marcel IJzerman
Music: George Dzodzuashvili
Voiceover: Sarah Cale