Nan Goldin – The Ballad of Sexual Dependency.

As part of the group exhibition BOHEMIA: History of an Idea, 1950–2000 at Kunsthalle Praha, one of Nan Goldin’s most famous works, The Ballad of Sexual Dependency, was presented. This piece is an intimate portrait of the life of the artist and her friends during the 1970s and 1980s. At Kunsthalle Praha, this legendary work was showcased in its original format, using analog slide projectors.

From a technical standpoint, The Ballad of Sexual Dependency is an exceptionally demanding piece, as it consists of nearly 700 slides that must be displayed in perfect synchronization with the soundtrack. Our task was to select and configure the equipment to integrate modern sound playback and digital file systems with analog projectors and controllers from the 1980s. The chosen solution involved Kodak slide projectors and Dataton PAX controllers, ensuring reliable operation throughout the exhibition.

Photo by Krzysztof Miękus

Equipment Used and Its Role:

1. Kodak S-AV2050 Slide Projectors

• The installation used nine Kodak S-AV2050 projectors, known for their reliability, ease of use, and relatively low noise levels.
• The projectors were mounted on stable stackers by the American brand Chief, enabling precise alignment and avoiding any shifts or distortions.

2. Dataton PAX Synchronization System

• To achieve perfect harmony among the nine projectors, the Dataton PAX system was employed to synchronize their operation.
• Dataton PAX allowed for precise control of slide sequences, ensuring smooth transitions between images. This was crucial for maintaining the rhythm of the visual narrative integral to Goldin’s work.

3. Audio-Visual Integration

• The soundtrack, an essential part of the installation, was delivered through a precise audio system by the Czech brand KV2.

4. Calibration and Configuration

• The installation required precise adaptation of the projections to the exhibition space at Kunsthalle Praha. Detailed equipment calibration and meticulous settings ensured that all elements worked seamlessly together.

Why This Equipment Was Chosen:

• Authenticity and Fidelity to the Original: The slide show was historically the first presentation format for The Ballad of Sexual Dependency, making it essential to preserve this original technique for the work’s authenticity.
• Precision Synchronization: The Dataton PAX system provided unmatched control over image sequences, ensuring harmony between projections and sound.
• Stability and Image Quality: Kodak S-AV2050 projectors, known for their reliability and precision, perfectly captured the characteristic aesthetic of Goldin’s photography.

Final Outcome:

Thanks to the use of Kodak projectors, the Dataton PAX system, and precise technical installation, the exhibition at Kunsthalle Praha became an experience that faithfully conveyed the intimate and emotional essence of Nan Goldin’s work. The technology not only supported but enhanced the artistic message, offering visitors full immersion in Goldin’s world.