Waves of Mu
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Amy Caron's "Waves of Mu" is a great example of what The Leonardo loves -- Caron perfectly translated the science of mirror neurons to a theater performance and art installation at her show here in Salt Lake City a couple of weeks ago.
(My souvenir program, pre-untangling)
The show is named for the EEG oscillations that reflect mirror neuron activity, but that doesn't even begin to cover a description. Participants hand over their shoes and crowd together in a small ante room, swilling champagne and chatting before moving into a brain room -- the thalamus is a 1960s-era secretary, enormous chandeliers represent the prefrontal cortex, and snarling, sculpted cats (jaguars? imaginary creations?) are the amygdalas. On my walk through, the thalamus frantically asked me to get the amygdala a gentle pet because a "wave of fear is coming on."
After passing through the brain room, visitors step into a "laboratory" for the rest of the performance. I've likely already given too much away, but it's safe to say that everything -- the projections, the football game, the neuroscientist's lecture, and the outburst -- tie back to the idea that mirror neurons allow us to relate to each other.
Caron uses art and performance to translate complex neuroscientific points for those of us not, ahem, fluent in that language. If you missed Caron's show this time around, you can catch her in Seattle this fall.
7 Comments:
I could not agree more. Having gone to Caron's show in SLC, I can't believe that the Leonardo has not snatched it up for a longer run! Caron's piece is a smart, insightful and fascinating fusion of art and science, not only teaching the audience about mirror neurons but creating a piece in which the audience experiences their profundity. Caron's "Waves of Mu" quickly sold out for both its Friday and Saturday showings, leading Caron to add a Thursday night show last minute that was nearly sold out as well. Clearly SLC is interested in compelling work like hers. The Leonardo should book her show for a longer run to give locals a chance to experience "Waves of Mu"!!
Caron's work is like none other and it fascinated me from beginning to end! She clearly (and not so clearly) educated me in a wacky way on something that I often taken for granted, simple socialization with those around me. The blend of art and science was a refreshing gem that was as easily grasped by the masses as the scientists themselves.
Caron's work Waves of Mu is like none other and it fascinated me from beginning to end! The piece educated me in a wacky way on something I often take for granted, simple socialization with those around me. Every detail was clearly thought out, bridging the gap between art and science. The material was as easily grapsed by the masses as the scientists themselves. Waves of Mu is a unique gem that needs to be seen, heard and felt.
I had heard about Waves of Mu, but never thought I'd get to see it in my hometown (it was touring in NYC, AK, etc.) As I expected, I was blown away. The sheer amount of research that went into this project was so unlike any other artwork I had encountered...and much more up my alley, as I tend to have trouble with "abstract ideas" so commonly found in most presentation pieces. And it was beautiful to boot! A real, unique experience.
I had heard about Waves of Mu, but wasn't able to see it until recently. I was immediately drawn in and pleasantly surprised at the amount of research and technical information that obviously went into this project. I often struggle with the abstractness of presentation art, so this was right up my alley. Entertaining AND educational-you can't lose. Plus, it was beautiful to the eye!
I was so excited to finally see Waves of Mu, after having heard so much about it. This performance runs the gambit of human emotion and firmly asks it's audience to join in. Clever banter and gentle comedy are laced with moments of self-reflection and uncomfortable wonder. Combine all this with dance, science, football, beer, massive art installations and a giant ball of yarn and you have only a piece of Waves of Mu. Who wouldn't want to see this?
Any chance of this show coming back to Salt Lake in the future?? Sadly we were slow on the draw and couldn't get tickets in time. We know many others who ran into the same problem. Seems like a reprise at The Leonardo would be a good fit. (Thumbs up and fingers crossed)
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