Convergence Research
Wednesday, September 18, 2024
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Toni Valle and George Heathco collaborate on a new multidisciplinary, cross disciplinary response to the sculpture “Witness” by artist Shahzia Sikander that explores the theme of justice and “traditional representations of power.” “Testimony: Seen and Heard” is an aerial dance performance/visual art installation created by various artists under the direction of Valle. The artistic team consists of composer/UH Moores alum George Heathco, costume designer/UH Dance alum Ashley Horn Nott, UH visual art student Shelby Craze, performed by Craze, Veronica Ordonez, Michelle Reyes, and Talia Saulsberry. “Testimony: Seen and Heard” premieres at the Blaffer Arts Museum courtyard on September 18, 2024 as part of a Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center Convergence Research Project.
The sculpture “Witness,” originally commissioned in front of the New York Appellate Courthouse, incorporates elements of the courthouse’s architectural design, statues, and mosaics within the building. It is a visual commentary on human rights, bodily autonomy, the judicial system, and freedom of expression. “Testimony: Seen and Heard” draws upon the sculpture’s design and content. The work accomplishes this by magnifying both the theme of the sculpture (bodily autonomy and unearthed roots), the structure of the sculpture (braids, roots, a woman not bound by earth), and the significance of its original location (Appellate Court, NY.)
The performance is followed by a moderated panel discussion on the importance of artistic freedom of expression and free speech.
- Location
- Blaffer Art Museum, 4173 Elgin St. Houston, TX 77004
- Cost
- Free
- Contact
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Center for the Arts
3351 Cullen Blvd.
Houston, Tx. 77204
mitchellcenter@uh.edu