We have written about the Critical Art Ensemble since discovering them through the Gene(sis) art show curated by Robin Held at the Henry. Their early work, beginning in 1987, was political and often participatory. In the late 1990's they began to create bio-art work which were included in Gene(sis). That would make them early participants in the biohacker and biopunk movements. Then there was the unfortunate instance of CAE artist Steve Kurtz being arrested in 2004 for making art from living cells in his home laboratory. After 2006, the CAE shifted its focus to critique of global warfare, climate changes, endangered species, pollution and economic inequality.
Now the Critical Art Ensemble comes to PNCA.
Their visual show, Acceptable Losses, runs from March 13 to June 2 in the Feldman gallery.
The show opens and the artists speak on March 13 at 5PM at PNCA.
With support from Lewis and Clark and Portland State University, the Critical Art Ensemble talks about art and politics, a long time theme in their work. The talk will be held at the PSU 5th Avenue Cinema March 14 at 7PM.
Brian Holmes speaks on Tactical Media in the Neoliberal Era: The Helicopter View (or should we say the drone view) March 15 6:30PM at PNCA.
And using the social practice tactic of food, the CAE hosts a block party on NW 13th by PNCA March 16 noon-5.
You can do you own research on the artists, then join the events. The PR is sub par, but this link covers the entire program: cal.pnca.edu/e/675?s=20130313.
The PNCA events art at NW 13 and NW Johnson. The PSU Hall Street Cinema is at 515 SW Hall. All events are free.
