Ping Chong to discuss art in the new century

Ping Chong will speak Friday, March 2, on “Making Art in the New Century” and show slides and video of his award-winning and innovative work in theater and performance.

Chong is the Arts Institute interdisciplinary artist in residence. He will speak at 7 p.m. at the Madison Art Center, third floor auditorium, 211 State St.

Whether as a theater or performance maker, choreographer, videographer, or installation artist, Chong has consistently produced art that challenges audiences’ preconceptions and rewards their serious engagement. The status of the “other” in America has been the signature theme of Chong’s career, which long predates the ’90s preoccupation with “multiculturalism” and questions of diversity.

Works such as “Deshima” (1990), “Chinoiserie” (1995), “After Sorrow” (1997), and “Pojagi” (1999) have been enthusiastically received all over the globe by both spectators and critics. Chong’s achievements have been acknowledged through two Obie Awards, a Guggenheim fellowship, and six NEA fellowships.

Chong’s residency is co-sponsored by Afro-American Studies; Environment, Textiles and Design; Theatre and Drama; and the Dance Program. His visit will culminate in a public performance of his celebrated performance piece “Undesirable Elements” March 22-23 in Lathrop Hall, 1050 University Ave.

For information on the talk, call 257-0158. For information on “Undesirable Elements,” call 263-4086.
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