BILL VIOLA: EYE OF THE HEART

A FILM ABOUT THE LIFE AND WORK OF ONE OF THE LEADING VIDEO ARTISTS OF OUR TIME

The film traces Viola’s development of video art from his more conceptual beginnings to an increasingly narrative approach, using actors and exploiting the meditative aspects of extreme slow motion. With roots in Buddhist, Sufi and Christian mysticism, Viola’s work became increasingly influenced by images from the great spiritual traditions, reconnecting with his own Catholic roots.  The recurrence of images of bodies floating in water is related to a nar-death experience by drowning as a child.  The film includes a visit to the monumental Giotto murals in Assisi and the Californian desert, both major sources of inspiration for Bill, as well as contemplations on birth, death and consciousness.

CREDITS

Written, produced and directed by Mark Kidel

Camera by Mark Kidel

Edited by Rick Holbrook

Calliope Media, BBC, ARTE France

2003

Running time: 60 mins