Fear: Part One [Claustrophobia]

In preparation for the Fear series of works, I started investigating common and no so common fears. Claustrophobia is the fear of having no escape and being closed in. One study indicates that anywhere from 5–7% of the world population is affected by severe claustrophobia.

To enter the installation viewers must enter a dark confined space with loud music and flashing video projections. Video monitors playing a synced two channel video show the image of a face with the eyes closed. Text scrolls across both screens containing information about claustrophobia. A large projection covering two walls shows the face of a blindfolded man in panic. Descriptions of the ailments of claustrophobia also flash on the screen.

Contains the audio track Lesbian Laundromat, 3rd Avenue by theB94 produced specifically for this installation. [February 2006]