SONG 1: HIRSHHORN

If you have not had a chance yet, there is still time to see the movie “Song 1” showing literally on the outside wall of the Hirshhorn Museum. This is an art film that shows various people singing different covers of “I Only Have Eyes For You” against the backdrop of a variety of urban settings. The movie is projected, from sunset to midnight, all around the circular building in an approximately 35 minute repeating loop.

The Hirshhorn's cylindrical, almost blank exterior makes a great 360 degree movie screen. In fact, film maker Doug Aitken refers to his project as “liquid architecture”, in that it envelops the entire building and is best seen by walking around it. I found the effect hypnotic, with the larger than life images accompanying the somewhat haunting song.

The project has been extended for another week, until May 20^th. I recommend you go!