Tanya Batson-Savage, Freelance Writer
South African artist Candice Breitz views her 30-channel video installation, 'Legend', launched at the Bob Marley Museum, Hope Road, St. Andrew, on December 3. The exhibition was commissioned by Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary in Vienna, Austria. - ANDREW SMITH/PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR
THE PHOTOS of Bob Marley were moved out of the Bob Marley Museum at his former home, 56 Hope Road, and in their stead was placed the contemporary art piece 'Legend'. Taking the name of the compilation which speaks to the impact of Bob Marley and the Wailers on the world of music and the wider world, the work represents the songs through the voices of Marley's fans.
'Legend' is a 30-channel video installation created by Candice Breitz, and was commissioned by the Thyssen-Bornemisza Contemporary Art Foundation. The foundation was founded by Francesca Von Habsburg, a Swiss-born Archduchess daughter of Baron Hans Heinrich Thyssen-Bornemisza.
HEARTFELT RENDITIONS
The piece features footage of 30 Jamaicans delivering a capella renditions of the 14 songs from the Legend album, including Exodus, Jammin, Redemption Song, Buffalo Soldier, Waiting in Vain and I Shot the Sherrif. Each person was recorded individually, though the installation shows them simultaneously. The impact is quite intriguing, as it speaks with raw honesty of the internalisation of Marley's music. With the exception of one of the participants (who was clearly in performance mode) the singers gave what was clearly heartfelt renditions of the songs, and the removal of instrumentation allowed for a focus on the lyrics.
When they didn't know the words they just rocked to the music, and at times individuals jumped ahead of the song. These two traits highlighted the authenticity of the experience as a personal thing, where a fan takes the work of a beloved artiste and then it becomes a part of that fan's own expression.
Additionally, Breitz selected such a wide cross-section of Jamaicans that visually the installation makes it clear the impact of the music, and that it has no bounds of age, class or gender.
'Legend' was opened to the public on December 3, and continues through to the end of the month. It makes a worthwhile visit, whether one stands and watches the entire album or just take in a few of ones favourite songs.
