The Rite of Spring

Inspired by the infamous ballot and orchestral concert by Igor Stravinsky, this dynamic group curation examines the inescapable dichotomy present in the world of today. The ecstasy of spring, though vivid and full of bliss, is invariably counterbalanced by an equally potent force; that of violent upheaval. In this polarizing exhibition, artists Liz Walsh, Jonathan Ryan, Marco Minaya, Chyrum Lambert, Justin N. Kim, Alyss Estay, Zaki Christensen, Albert Kyu Hyun Choi, and Troy Barrett, earnestly present an existence of growth and decay.

'The Rite of Spring' opens with a reception on Saturday, February 1st, from 6-9 pm at la BEAST gallery in Cypress Park. The show will conclude on March 8th.

About the Exhibition

For many, the first introduction to Igor Stravinsky’s haunting orchestral work was in the 1940 Disney production of ‘Fantasia’. Experimental in its day, the pairing of classical music and captivating animation, reignited audiences attention, superimposing visual landscapes overtop a symphonic artform that was threatening to fall out of favor. ‘Fantasia’, as a whole, was an undeniable success, but what really etched itself into waking memory was the excerpt depicting 

the death of the dinosaurs. In the rewatching of the 22 minute segment, what becomes clear is that yes, fleets of brontosaurus do indeed meet their untimely end. But what the majority of the storyline reveals, is a visually stunning portrayal of the genesis of life. 

Stravinsky’s own reflections on ‘The Rite of Spring’ is a deep dive into the depths of death and rebirth. Musically characterized by its aggressive rhythms and dissonant chords, the ballet’s narrative centers on an ancient pagan ritual in which a young girl dances herself to death, offering her body as sacrifice to the god of spring to gain favor and ensure the fertility of the land. This notion of ‘sacrifice’ is pivotal. Through the repetitive use of harsh musical motifs, Stravinsky reinforces the turbulence that underpins the creation of something special.

For those who look closely, a clear truth emerges: chaos and creation are inseparably intertwined. We aim for paradise but somehow, without fail, disharmony shows up, demanding balance, thrusting forth a verdict that has no bounds. To all appearances, we all seem to participate in a profound meditation on the cyclical nature of life itself.