As one of America’s foremost contemporary artists and EMPAC’s inaugural distinguished artist-in-residence, Laurie Anderson will develop new work at EMPAC. As part of her ongoing residency, Anderson will engage with Rensselaer and the greater Capital Region community through a series of events focusing on special topics unique to her practice as an artist. This spring, she will bring us two diverse insights into her wide-ranging artistic work.

On February 14, Anderson will discuss the ever-evolving development of new instruments for her productions and performances. She will be joined by her software and hardware development collaborators.

On May 2, Anderson will provide audiences with a unique opportunity to be fully immersed in her films by leading us through a screening of many of her works. The evening will include special guest and Rensselaer Arts Department professor Pauline Oliveros, who will join Anderson on stage to play music together to a silent film.

Two more events are planned in the fall that discuss archiving of time-based art—music, performance, installations, and film—including the tools often unique to the artists.