Thollem's "Technicolor Grey Zone" Stresses Innovation and Collaboration at the Art Museum

Friday, June 1

Thollem McDonas has an impressive — and eccentric — resume.

Working primarily as a pianist, he's collaborated with an impressive list of noteworthy people. If you like experimental rock, he's collaborated with members of Wilco, the Minutemen, Deerhoof, Can, and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Like jazz? He's worked with William Parker, Rob Mazurek, and Suzie Ibarra. If you're a cinephile, he has collaborated with experimental filmmakers Michael Snow and Matthew Barney. When all that isn't keeping him busy, he's also an essayist, an educator, and a committed political activist.

At the Erie Art Museum on June 1, Thollem will perform his "Technicolor Grey Zone," an evening of live electronic music and film screenings. As you might guess, it's another collaborative effort. The screenings will prioritize stop-motion animation, socio-political commentary, and fragmented narratives. Thollem's music will accompany animated shorts from Pennsylvania native Martha Colburn and Italian artist Tuia Cherici. Dancers Germaul Barnes and Peter Sparling will also appear on screen. Thollem's sounds will also respond to glass objects made by multidisciplinary artist Alison Leigh Holt. Finally, the performance will feature the contemplative work of filmmaker ACVilla — who will also be in attendance.

I'm not going to lie — I'm not quite sure what this is going to look or sound like. But the prospect of something truly unexpected should be enough to spark serious interest. If your favorite hangout in Erie is the PACA building, or if you eagerly await the next entry in the Electroflux Experimental Music Series, this should be right up your alley. If not, drop by the museum with an open mind. This performance will surely be memorable. — Dan Schank

8 p.m. // Pay what you wish, suggested donation $20/person // Erie Art Museum // thollem.com