The Video Depositions of Vertical Blanking

Vertical Blanking

FIRST RETROSPECTIVE

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Price: $12*
Genre: Film/Video
Season: Winter/Spring 2025
DATE: MAR 24
TIME: MON, 8 PM
STREAM: MON, 8 PM (72 hours)
RUNTIME: Approx. 60 minutes
COUNTRY: USA

* Discounts available for REDCAT members, students & the CalArts faculty and staff

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About

This program presents the first-ever retrospective of Vertical Blanking, a video art, performance, and experimental music duo consisting of Kamandalu (formerly Kim McKillip) and Michael J. Masucci. Working out of West Hollywood’s seminal “video gallery” microcinema and production space EZTV from 1986–1993, Vertical Blanking created early examples of what became known as “desktop video” that combined analog video tape decks with hot-rodded desktop computers, experimental soundtracks, and live performance elements. The five short videos in the program explore wide-ranging themes of feminism, Pan-Pacific mythology, UFO/UAP conspiracies, consumerism, and televangelism, and feature collaborations with Dr. Timothy Leary and a number of other artists.

Featuring founding member and director of EZTV Michael J. Masucci in conversation with filmmaker Elizabeth Purchell and a live performance by Alina Kalinouskaya.

Please note: The Video Depositions of Vertical Blanking contains flashing lights, nudity, and mature content

Striking and original, Deposition combines surreal imagery and haunting narrative.

—

Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times

Programmed by Elizabeth Purchell and Hollywood Entertainment as the kickoff for a yearlong Los Angeles-wide celebration of EZTV’s 45th anniversary.

The Jack H. Skirball Series is organized by Jheanelle Brown.