Locus Solus Site, Identity, Technology in Contemporary Art

Locus Solus: Site, Identity and Technology in Contemporary Art borrows its title from a book by Raymond Roussel, first published in 1914. The literal meaning of the phrase "Locus Solus" is unique or solitary place. In Roussel's book, a brilliant but perhaps deranged scientist pursues fantastical technological pursuits, including the re-animation of the dead and various projects which automate the making of works of art. Locus+, whose curatorial practice provides the content of Locus Solus are considered here through sub-headings dealing respectively with the power within boundaries and the subsequent specificity of site; identity and its demarcation; the crossing of borders by technology and its mutation. 60 b/w illustrations