Excerpts from Jezebel

Jezebel (2006) is 5-channel video installation that is part cultural anthropology and part dream-scape surrealism. These "Jezebels" are set within fragmentary layered interiors, where past and present worlds collide. Ornate rooms, church sanctuaries and institutional green hospitals are "wallpapered" with urban graffiti and detritus. Jezebel is a woman caught between realities, existing in the future, present and past simultaneously.

Approaching the work as a three dimensional moving painting, my “Jezebel” intimates the mythology, history, and stereotypes that shape and define femininity within our collective unconscious. This icon is not one woman, but many, ranging from a villain to a non-conformist to a superwoman of human empowerment. The color red as a signifier of lust, sexuality, wantonness, as well as revolution, anger, and courage; we see this color wrapping not only the figure but her words.

As a native of the Southern United States, I was first inspired by the 1938 film in which an outspoken 19th century Southern belle -- played by the actress Bette Davis -- is ostracized and labeled a "Jezebel" for wearing a red dress, instead of a "virginal" white dress, to a formal ball. From this character, I researched the more universal interpretations and contradictions that surround the avatar Jezebel.

In a reference to cinema and painting, in this video I provides five mise en scènes that give context to Jezebel’s historic and cultural currency. I have collected numerous texts and woven them together into visual and textual personifications.

Studio Acknowledgements:
Actor: Christina Tarbell
Filming & Production Assistance: Jimi Billingsley, Alexis Callender and Teddy Mak