the castle of perseverance

The Castle of Perseverance in conjunction with the Hamptons International Film Festival showcases a selection of artists who exhibited work that explores the function of symbols as props that set a potential scene. Curated by artist Molly Surno, these artworks suggest the possibility for narrative and artificial drama through video, painting, installation, and sculptural works.

The show takes its title, The Castle of Perseverance, from the first theatrical production to cite and utilize props outside of masks. Theatrical property, later known as props, was characterizedby their portability and capacity to suspend disbelief. In the original play, there is an “allegorical battle between good and evil over the soul of mankind. The two sides are equal, with 15 good characters balanced against 15 bad characters”. Here, 15 artists will each provide 2 works to mirror the characters in the play.