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May 03, 2006
Drawing Restraint 9
(Matthew Barney and Bjork in a scene from the film, Drawing Restraint 9)
My good friend Pat and I spent last wednesday evening at the SFMOMA's glamorous after party for Matthew Barney's latest cinematic creation:drawing restraint 9. I was surprised to find the usually industrial-looking front lobby transformed into an entirely different space. it was bathed in flourescent spotlights reminiscent of a swanky, high class lounge. There was even a DJ at the front of the staircase spinning down tempo electronica to set the mood. the setting was truly impressive.
With two bars strategically set up at opposite ends of the room, it was obvious there would be a lot of talking and energy amongst the crowd, a combination of many scenes: artists, marina district people, art students, and hipsters. we had a blast (lots of quiet snickers) by simply observing the crowd, their mannerisms, outfits, and interactions with each other. we also caught a glimpse of the artist himself. he spent a good portion of the evening in a corner of the room, by the mens' restroom. there was an aura around him that screamed, 'get the fuck away from me. i'm only doing this because i'm being held at gunpoint by the museum's board of trustees.' i would probably feel the same way myself, if i were in his position. :-)
the best story of the night came from my coworker who witnessed this incident between the elusive artist and a young fan: (dialogue liberally paraphrased)
Fan, approaching artist: "Matthew, may i take a picture with you?"
Barney: "NO, i'd rather not."
Sad Fan, quickly backing away: "Oh! no problem. I'm so sorry. but thanks any way."
Another great moment occured when the DJ started playing a bjork track. how awkward. (Bjork's his lover/co-star in drawing restraint 9/mother of his child.) i can just imagine what was going through barney's head at that moment.....
*An excellent overview of the film from Wikipedia.
Posted by Kellie at May 3, 2006 07:17 AM