Test Transmissions

explores the idea of television, and its use for art, since independent production became a possibility

Article by Graham McIntosh | 15 Jul 2006

As you enter the CCA's latest exhibition, you'd be forgiven for missing the point. Sporadically positioned TVs show baffling shorts on a continuous loop. It is only when you learn of their context (deliberate unannounced interruptions to regular programming), that they become fun to watch. One in which the TV screen is filling with water is a particular favourite. The rest of the exhibition follows suit – exploring the idea of television, and its use for art, since independent production became a possibility. From hijacking transmissions, to political expression and exploiting media bias, it exhibits the history of how artists and the public have treated television since the 60s. The largest and loudest piece, Global Groove depicts a 1970s predictive montage of televisual diversity, leading the viewer to consider whether or not they were right. Other highlights include Andy Warhol's TV and the fantastic Facing a Family which, when viewed, displays a typical American TV-dinner family watching you watching them. One to Watch. [Graham McIntosh]

CCA Sauchiehall Street. Until July 22, Tuesday to Saturday. Free.

http://www.cca-glasgow.com