"THE MAN-EATING PLANT:· 2000. OIL ON WOOD
it is a dream identity, but I think there are far fewer people doing it than being entertained [by it). This is a major trend. It's really a huge industry of voyeurism; the Discovery Channel, Ushuaia, the Travel Channel. I find myself watching these constantly. It's the new frontier of entertainment. We're at a really interesting moment and I wish I could have pre- dicted it. It's almost like a zeitgeist, the whole "Survivor" thing. I could see the pendulum really swinging back against technology. People are increasingly interested in being alone, [in knowing] how they would survive without civilization. I also think there is an unconscious fantasy of [knowing] what would happen if there were the ultimate emergency.
blue: Why did you decide to feature yourself in these paintings? AR: Besides a healthy dose of vanity and narcissism, I also represent a certain type of triumphalism. So I'm a good prop to poke fun at. It depends on the image, but what I'm poking fun at first and foremost is myself, the healthy American male.
For more information on Alexis Rockman contact: Gorney Bravin + Lee Gallery 526 West 26th Street New York, NY 10001 212-352-8372
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Expedition runs from October 14 to November 11, 2000
