With the aim of providing better support for documentary photography, the Magnum Foundation is seeking to expand beyond the worlds of the press and exhibitions. Two weeks ago, the Magnum Foundation organized, in association with The Open Society Foundation, a weekend of discussions entitled “Photography, Expanded” to explore new forms of collaboration available to photographers, including interactive design, video games and multimedia platforms, to name just a few.
Another unique initiative is the Magnum Foundation’s collaboration with the Working Theater on the play La Ruta, written by Ed Cardona, Jr. While immigration is debated in Congress, this unconventional play – be it in its scenic and narrative forms – offers an immersive experience in which the photography is both a metaphor and a rhythmic element.The play follows immigrants from Central America, anxious and elated, as they cross the U.S. border in a truck, which they share with the audience. Their doubts and memories fill the time on the road, and photographs alternate between vast landscapes of the South and portraits. The selection of images, drawn from the Magnum Photos archive, subtly evoke their past and their hope. Photographs are screened on the stage set, playing a discreet and timid role, but convincing nonetheless. Its function is above all emotional, reflecting the tone of the play,which refuses all pathos and caricature.
Accompanying the performance is an installation featuring a video by Mimi Schiffman, and photographs by Paolo Pellegrin, Chien-Chi Chang, Paul Fusco, Susan Meiselas and Ruth Prieto that further explore the themes of the play. A giant photograph by Paolo Pellegrin of the El Paso border faces visitors at the exit. It is covered with the names, genders and ages of hundreds of bodies, many unidentified, found on the Mexican border. This is one of the realities of immigration. The other walls provide other visions : those of detention, anguish, illegality, and, also, successful immigration. The installation is complemented by audio testimonies and written accounts that resonate with Cardona’s play.
Laurence Cornet
Performances until May 12, 2013
In various locations around New York
USA
