The Parliament of the Pitiful is the culmination of Laura Vandewynckel’s doctoral research Moved by the Object. Over six years, she explored how mechanical puppets, robots and kinetic sculptures can move us, bring us together and spark debate and action.
Drawing on ancient and contemporary scapegoat myths, Vandewynckel gives a voice to those who are usually cast out: human and non-human beings at the margins. In her automata, these scapegoats come back to life — as tragic, playable figures that confront us with responsibility and offer a new perspective on the myths.
The exhibition brings together her collection of automata and animates them through short films. A poetic parliament for those who were never given a seat at the table.
Academisch promotor Ellen Gillard, co-academische promotoren Dominiek Hoens en Nadia Sels, artistiek promotor Jan Vromman
Where and when?
Public defense at Pilar (Triomflaan, VUB entrance 6, 1050 Brussels) on 23 September at 4pm. The exhibition is -also at Pilar- open that day between 2pm and 4pm and from 6pm till 8pm.
The official opening of the exhibition is scheduled on 24 September at 6pm. The exhibtion runs until 23 October included and is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays between 2pm and 6pm.
Registration exhibtion and/or public defense tentoonstelling en/of publieke verdediging
Fill out the form before 11 September to reserve your spot for the public defense on 23 September and/or the official opening of the exhibition on 24 September.