Dini Dixon

The Long Goodbye is a video collage created using ceramic clay to produce abstract claymation. By combining claymation with drawings, found video footage, and music, I seek to produce a dreamlike atmosphere.

The moldable quality of clay lends itself as grounds to investigate the malleability of human identity which is subject to constant change. The images I produce represent the projection of masculine identity and explore the themes of power, coolness, strength, and what it means to be heroic. I am reversing the norm of the male gaze commonly represented in art history by depicting masculinity from the female gaze, as a voyeur.

My interest in claymation video stemmed from the desire to animate the sculpture process, and integrate video into my sculpture instillations. By recording the movements I make I create a stop motion sequence that allows the viewer to follow my process forming objects. Video also allows me to repeat steps and layer the images to further emphasize the rhythmic movement that happens as a result of the process. My videos intend to subvert the stoic nature of ceramic objects by presenting them in a digital format that affords constant movement. The fluidity of this format also echoes my focus on theme of identity as a constantly moving and evolving part of our lives.

United States