In the foyer of The Economist Tower Andrew Dodds presented What can be imagined, can be created. Following the award of the Dolby Travel Prize 2001, which funded a study trip to Las Vegas, he created three new video works.
Three “video-relaxation-stations” which form the visual element of each piece shows slow-motion footage of revolving animated decorative “Jackpot” machines which are found in casino gaming rooms. Dubbed over each of these videos is the hypnotic pseudo-futuristic musical backing track and commentary from three self-help motivation tapes.
The audience can sit, don headphones and become immersed in the mesmerising and seductive sound and video. These tapes are specifically designed for business executives to assist in stress reduction and Dodds has subtly altered the soundtracks as well as the quality and speed of the moving images.
Dodds, originally from Northern Ireland, currently lives and works in London. Gaining a Masters in Fine Art Media at the Slade School of Art, 2000, he has exhibited nationally since 1998. Exhibitions include BlackboxRecorder FM, Belfast (2002), City Space, Birmingham (2002), East of Eden at Spacex Gallery, Exeter (2001), New Horizons at The Lux, London (2000) and Puppylove at the Barbican Centre, London and Ikon Gallery touring, Birmingham (1999). Dodds is currently developing Dark Days, a site-specific experiment, in conjunction with Grizedale Arts, Cumbria.