Description: Pumpjack examines the prairie icon by concentrating on the characteristic nodding motion of a pumpjack. Pumpjack is a meditative deconstruction of the rhythmic movement of the machine, that pulls liquids out of the earth.
Pumpjacks are symbols of the oil and gas industry that is alternatively vilified or acclaimed. They convert a rotary movement into a vertical reciprocating motion to drive the pump shaft, and pull oil or gas out of the ground. They dot the countryside and mark the location of a producing well. But they are in decline in the landscape, as newer, more improved technology replaces this dinosaur. This video examines the Pumpjack with as little political comment as possible, concentrating more on the movement and the components of this easily recognized machine.
Artist: Lia Rogers is a practicing interdisciplinary artist concentrating on sculptural works, interactive installations, software and online interventions. She started out as a production potter, making pottery to put herself through a BFA in sculpture at the University of Calgary. During her studies, she discovered media art and computers. She went on to get a BSc. degree in Computer Science. She has spent time working at the Banff Center and for the Integrated Arts Media Lab. She is the Calgary Dorkbot overlord, and a member of EMMEDIA’s Board of Directors. Her work has been exhibited all over Canada.
