My friend Asa Riton in Stockholm, Sweden has begun participating in a new interview series. Though I've so far only watched the Andreas Emenius & Mikkel Hess episode, I quite enjoy the overall vibe of the work. In particular I'm fond of the way it showcases two dedicated artists having a relaxed conversation in an unexpected environment, (i.e. an outdoor ice bath). By removing these friends from their given contexts (recording studio, live venue, art gallery, installation space, etc...) it immediately puts the conversation on a much more human and level playing field. Just two naked dudes pondering their day, their friendship, their lives... Ice bath, coffee and cigs.... The way its meant to be.
Indeed, if they keep up the juxtapositions of people and places it may well become the most refreshing interview program I will have gazed upon in quite some time. Blah blah blah... Anyway, I look forward to staring at more episodes soon.
For anyone wanting to know a bit more about the program, I've cut n' pasted the "About" section from the Avant/Garde website below:
['The Avant/Garde Diaries is a digital interview magazine that documents personal views on the avant-garde. Rather than labeling people avant-garde, we try to see through the eyes of people, who we admire for what they do. For each article we ask contributors from the creative field to introduce someone or something they consider to be ahead of time and explain why. The result will be a compendium of various, very personal perspectives that disclose new ways of thinking and spread inspiration. Corresponding to this digital platform, festivals will be hosted in metropolises around the world. Each event will be curated by an expert from the creative industry, showcasing his or her personal view on avant-garde. For information on upcoming and past events please check the Event category on this site. The Avant/Garde Diaries is a project by Mercedes-Benz.']
Asa, btw, congratulations on the new baby. I hope to see both of you soon.
Love & Strength,
Arlz
