Artist to discuss ‘Conflict Theory’ project Jan. 25 at Rice Media Center

BY FRANZ BROTZEN
Rice News staff

Artist and Rice University faculty member Christopher Sperandio will present a free public lecture on his latest collaborative artwork, titled “Conflict Theory,” Jan. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Rice Media Center’s film auditorium.

From August to November 2010, Sperandio and his longtime collaborator, British artist Simon Grennan, served as the Witt Artists-in-Residence in the School of Art and Design at the University of Michigan (U-M). During that time, they developed “Conflict Theory” as a large, interactive and playable game made in direct collaboration with more than 45 project participants.

The project, commissioned for the University of Michigan, brought together U-M students and Ann Arbor residents to create a large-scale war game set in the context of a model of the city.

Sperandio, who is an assistant professor of visual and dramatic arts, will present an illustrated lecture on the project. In addition, a short documentary film on new artwork, directed by Houston native Sharad Patel, will be screened. The presentation will be followed by a reception.

The event is open to the public. For more information, call 713-348-4882.