Abstract
Summary
In this conversation, artist Tiong Ang discusses his project "The Second Hands," developed for the 9th Bucharest Biennial 2020–21. The work is a collective enterprise under the name Tiong Ang & Company, involving a core team of approximately 15 people, with expansions including dancers and extras for certain parts. "The Second Hands" draws a parallel between the events in Bucharest and Timișoara at the end of 1989, leading to the deposition of Nicolae Ceaușescu and the end of Communist rule, and today's world (2020–21). The project is conceived as a large film production, divided into five films directed by different makers, each exploring interconnected themes such as political oppression, mass demonstration, and coming of age in uncertain times. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was postponed, prompting a deeper reflection on its development and parallels with Ang's previous works, including "Universality: Decorum of Thought and Desire" (Guangzhou, 2015) and his participation in the Havana Biennale in 1994. MAHKUSCRIPT
Key Questions About "Universal Noise: A Conversation between Mark Kremer and Tiong Ang"
1. What is "The Second Hands" project by Tiong Ang?
"The Second Hands" is a collective art project developed for the 9th Bucharest Biennial 2020–21. It involves a series of five interconnected films directed by different makers, exploring themes like political oppression, mass demonstration, and coming of age in uncertain times.
2. How does "The Second Hands" relate to the Romanian Revolution of 1989?
The project draws a parallel between the events of the Romanian Revolution, which led to the end of Communist rule, and contemporary societal issues, reflecting on themes of rebellion, revolution, and the celebration of freedom.
3. Who are the collaborators involved in "The Second Hands" project?
The core team, known as Tiong Ang & Company, consists of approximately 15 members. For certain parts of the work, the team expands to include dancers and extras, making it a multidisciplinary collective enterprise.
4. What impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on "The Second Hands" project?
The pandemic led to the postponement of the project, providing an opportunity for deeper reflection on its development and its connections to Ang's previous works.
5. How does "The Second Hands" connect to Tiong Ang's earlier works?
The project is juxtaposed with Ang's previous installations, such as "Universality: Decorum of Thought and Desire" (Guangzhou, 2015), and his participation in the Havana Biennale in 1994, highlighting a continuity in exploring complex, multifaceted themes through collaborative art practices.
