Vexations 2017
“In order to play the theme 840 times in succession, it would be advisable to prepare oneself beforehand, and in the deepest silence, by serious immobilities.” – Erik Satie
Artist Statement
A series of short video pieces exploring the physicality of recorded sound. The audio is derived from altering the playback of 33rpm records by placing objects on the LP and physically interfering with the path of a record player’s tonearm to create “sampled loops.” In playing around with the phonograph as an instrument, I am following a tradition of experimentation by music pioneers like John Cage (prepared pianos) and hip hop DJ Grandmaster Flash (scratching).
This piece contains samples from some of Erik Satie’s best-known solo piano works, including Gymnopédie 1-3, Gnossiennes 1-6, Trois Nocturnes and Vexations.
David Pohl is an award-winning illustrator and multimedia artist based in Pittsburgh, PA. He works out of the House of Pingting, an illustration and design studio that works with magazine and book publishers. Pohl has created illustrations for clients such as, The New York Times, Reader’s Digest, Time, The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, Notre Dame Alumni Magazine, and many more.
In addition to illustration, Pohl also works with video. His videos are meant to explore the physicality of recorded sound. In his installations, Pohl works with layers of graphic elements to explore themes of acceptance and social justice.
Pohl received his BFA from The Cleveland Institute of Art. His work has been exhibited throughout the United States including, Pittsburgh Center for the Arts, Pittsburgh, PA; The Illustration Gallery, New York; and The Society of Illustrators Museum, New York, among others.