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Charitoo
(8:30) is a verb of Greek origin meaning "to
endue with divine favor or grace." The "theme" of this work is the idealization
of women by male artists and the recognition that such ideals are quite
at odds with the realities of women's existence. The central image here
is the Virgin Mary, There are brief appearances by other idealized women
such as the Gibson Girl, Barbie, and Rosie the Riveter. The work also
includes digital processing of several of Gorbach's paintings and manipulation
of original live action footage filmed by Nelson.
The sound track is
based primarily on two Gregorian chants. "Salve Regina" is sung in female
voice and conveys the sense of asking for grace from below. "Timete Domine"
is sung in male voice and conveys the sense that grace can be achieved
by following instructions. The first represents supplication while the
second implies dominance and fear. There are several brief quotations
from popular songs to support the appearance of the more contemporary
female ideals.
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