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Crispin Gurholt

Paris

Vidéo expérimentale | hdv | couleur | 3:4 | Norvège | 2013

In twilight we see a French limousine parked in front of a doorway next to a cash machine. In the back seat of the parked car is a middle-aged businessman. The private chauffeur is withdrawing money from the cash machine, and the driver`s car door is open. Next to the driver is a transvestite prostitute who is suggestive in his communication. Another transvestite prostitute leans against the limo`s rear window and is looking at the man in the back seat. In the dark doorway in the background we see the shadow of an elegant, masculine, Arab man, the pimp of the two prostitutes. Thematically the film points to the relationship between power, politics, money and sex, suggesting identity conflicts, double standards and hidden desires. The theme is archetypal, Machiavellian, and refers to a tacit acceptance of a system that helps to sustain an outdated patriarchy. As long as you don`t get caught everything is allowed! Recent sex scandals linked to European politicians, does not make the thematic less relevant. An intricate relationship between political and criminal groups is insinuated. The film is open and suggestive and apparently simple, but beneath the surface a complex communication pattern is unfolding.

Crispin Gurholt (f.1965) is a Norwegian artist based Berlin. He is a graduate of the National Art Academy in Oslo (1993-98) and New York University Film School (1996). He has exhibited in Havana, Venice, Rome, Turin, Madrid and Paris, the Henie Onstad Art Centre, Lillehammer Art Museum, Art Copenhagen, Stenersen Museum, Vigeland Museum, the North Norwegian Art Museum and Haugar Art Museum.