Francis Alÿs: The Politics of Rehearsal

by Russell Ferguson, Francis Alÿs (Artist), Ann Philbin (Foreword)

The Politics of Rehearsal accompanies the first large-scale American museum exhibit on Francis Alÿs, one of the most acclaimed artists working today. The centerpiece of the book is Alÿs' Rehearsal (Ensayo) series, but a number of related earlier works are included. "Ensayo 1, 1999-2000" shows a red Volkswagen Beetle attempting to ascend a steep hill in its attempts are synchronized with the sound track of Mexican danzon musicians rehearsing. "Ensayo 2, 2005" follows the rehearsal of a dancer practicing a striptease, and "Ensayo 3" will be produced by Alÿs specifically for the exhibition. Other works include "When Faith Moves Mountains" and "Song for Lupita," as well as many paintings, photographs and drawings. This significant new publication contains a DVD and an in-depth exploration of Alÿs's oeuvre by Russell Ferguson, organizer of the exhibition, focusing on the theme of rehearsal, which is so characteristic of Alÿs' work.

144 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2008

Reviews

[vic bourgeois · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes making something leads to nothing and sometimes making nothing leads to something.

[Amy Paget · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just finished this book about performance rehearsal artist, Francis Alys. I first saw his work at a gallery at DePauw University when Will was doing a college visit. It's very interesting humane and political art. See more at http://francisalys.com/