Transparency 1969

Directed by Ernie Gehr

"The footage for Transparency was recorded at variable camera speeds (from approx. 5 fps to around 40 fps). In this process, when later projected at a constant speed of 24 fps, the image on screen changes in time from a representation of cars passing in front of the camera to an image in flux and a collision of transparent colors and dynamic motion. One might also think of it as a rendering and transformation of one industrial phenomena (the automobile), by another industrial phenomena (the motion picture camera). What arises – as an experience – when 'visual phenomena' starts, thrives, and ends within the 4 borders of the rectangle and we do not project extensions to them? How startling when occasionally, and just for a moment, a bird enters the frame, and creates 'space' against a light blue 'sky'." – Ernie Gehr