Synopsis:

Variance Propagation is an optically based experimental film shot in realtime without computer generated effects or post processing. The only physical subject is light and water. I have developed open lens systems which operates in complete darkness in a 20’ x 30’ room. The actual lenses have no body and are a combination of glass and melting ice which degrade over time such that no two takes are exactly the same nor are they repeatable. The art of the process has become in creating the conditions which manifest the effect since it is largely uncontrollable, it is a practice of allowing and openness. The audio is created primarily in realtime with as few post tweaks as possible. It is hoped that this sense of the immersive, rooted in physical reality can serve to ground us and help reset media stereotypes.

Review by Victoria Angelique:

VARIANCE PROPAGATION is a tranquil film that one can melt into, being taken away from the world in a moment to reset by being drawn into the art on screen. It would be great in an immersive art experience, where individuals could pay to be lost in a world of color and sound. The film is impossible to look away from for even a second as even blinking could cause a small fragment to be missed. 

The techniques used in this film are different, but effective. The fact that only natural elements are used, rather than computer generated images makes this more a work of art than a film. The artist using ice and water to create the shapes that are enhanced by colored lights invokes geometrical images that constantly change as the film flows from frame to frame. It creates a beautifully pleasing artwork to watch.

Sound is another important element to this film. It is amplified, making this art better to watch with headphones in order to fully immerse oneself into the film. The soundscape draws the audience in, allowing the gorgeous images to flow seamlessly with the score. 

VARIANCE PROPAGATION feels as if it should be showcased in an art museum. A piece that one can watch multiple times and come away with something different each time. It is an immersive work of art with the feeling that it should be in a room where the audience is completely surrounded by the images and sounds. This is a rare short film as in invites the viewer to continuously watch it only to be surprised when it ends.