By Music lovers can currently get a taste of nostalgia in the University Art Museum. New York photographer Rhona Bitner presents “Static Noise,” and a preview of her latest project, “Listen.”
Bitner’s photos showcase abandoned venues and empty recording studios known for their mark in American music history. Attendees are able to tie the photos back to iconic performances that had once occurred in the various locations. Bitner wanted to make sure that viewers accepted the images for what they are now.
The idea of photographing old venues came to Bitner by mistake. According to Bitner, she planned to finalize her previous photo series, “Stage,” with a photo of the now closed Country, Blue Grass and Blues music club (CBGB). According to Amanda Fruta, director of Public Relations at the UAM, the photo of CBGB was supposed to tie in the notion of performance, but instead it inspired Bitner to explore the idea of capturing an energy in historic venues.
The photos give attendees a peek into Bitner’s latest project, “Listen,” —still a work in progress.
“The exhibition includes a very small selection of the images,” Bitner said. “As of now, there are [more than] 200 images in the work and there will be more.”
Like “Stage,” the photos for “Static Noise” are able to grab hold of viewers’ attentions with vivid colors and stark compositions.
One particular photo of the Detroit Grande Ballroom leaves attendees in awe. Once housing performances of the early punk and Detroit garage rock scenes, with house bands including Iggy Pop and the Stooges and the MC5, the building is now in a dilapidated state with debris covering the floor.
The image leaves viewers with a melancholy feeling, making them realize that what was once there has passed.
Others had the chance to see the venues in a different light. John Bafa, musician and sound technician for Lou Reed’s “Metal Machine Trio,” had once played on the stage of CBGB.
“I feel that it really captured what had once been there. It brings back the energy [of CBGB],” Bafa said.
Many saw the photos as a window into the past. However, Bitner reassures viewers that the photos should bear no resonance of the historical performances.
Bitner’s dismissal of nostalgia allows the viewer see the venues as they are right now. Individuals have the ability to experience the photos on a more personal level, rather than connecting them to the performances of the past.
“Static Noise” will be shown at the UAM until April 15. Students and guests can visit the exhibit on Tuesdays through Fridays from noon to 5 p.m.; Thursdays from noon to 8 p.m.; and Saturdays through Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
To view more of Bitner’s work, visit her website at rhonabitner.com.
