Art Make-Up

1967-68, 40 min, color, sound, 16 mm film on video
1967, 10 min, color, sound
 
1967-68, 10 min, color, sound
 
1967-68, 10 min, color, sound
 
1967-68, 10 min, color, sound
 

In each of these four related films, the artist applies a successive layer of colored makeup (white, pink, green, and finally black) to his face and upper torso. While he masks himself literally, the title implies that in so doing he also creates himself, "makes himself up." Initially the films were intended to be projected simultaneously on four walls of a room. Although this form of installation was never realized for this piece, Nauman employed the method for subsequent film and video installations.

 
 

In exhibition this work must be projected onto four separate walls. The four make-up applications should be shown linearly, so that all walls display the same color simultaneously. This can be achieved by projecting from a single source. Please contact the EAI office for installation guidelines and dimensions. The sound must be played through speakers. Headphones are not permitted.