The conference The Image-Thing analyse the function of the image as an operator endowed with reality. By way of acknowledgement of its ontological dimensions, the conference will explore the key role that it plays between object and subject, as well as between the intelligible and sensible world.
Theories, practices and films are presented that address today the different regimes of presence of images as well as their relative independence and exteriority, and develop directly or indirectly a reflection about imagination offering an alternative to the idea of an imaging consciousness distancing us from reality. Rather than being understood as an ineffectual figment of imagination, the image will be regarded as central to the understanding of life itself, thus becoming a vehicle for the comprehension of modes of existence that would otherwise escape our grasp. As written by Gilbert Simondon, the image-thing is a “sample of life”, a quasi-organism presenting itself according to its own forces, capable of inhabiting our consciousness like an intruder resisting the free will of the subject. Conceived of as exerting such a decisive role, the image will reveal itself as a vital function of the living.
Speeches by Andrea Cavalletti, Emanuele Coccia, Elie During, Bertrand Prévost, Chiara Vecchiarelli, Frédéric Worms, Dork Zabunyan.
Screenings: Pierre Huyghe, Mark Lewis, Jonas Mekas, Peter Snowdon.
Curated by Chiara Vecchiarelli
In collaboration with Iuav University of Venice, École normale supérieure de Paris, Institut français Italia.
Picture: Pierre Huyghe, Cambrian Explosion, 2016, ecosistema marino vivente. Ph: Stefan Altenburger Photography Zürich
