The Commission

Applying his electronic imaging codes to narrative in The Commission, Woody Vasulka develops a metaphorical image language to envision an epic electronic opera. The text, which is based on the relationship of violinist Niccolo Paganini (played by video artist Ernest Gusella ) and composer Hector Berlioz (composer/performer Robert Ashley), confronts myths of Romanticism, history and art-making. Constructing a fantastic video theater, Woody stages a narrative of transformation, an intricately crafted blend of figuration and abstraction, in which imaging techniques serve as expressive visual syntax. Specific video effects are assigned interpretive meaning; reframed images proliferates within images in re-composition that propel the narrative progression. The Commission is a pivotal work in the articulation of narrative strategies through all electronic image language.