Speculum

A moving image sigil, an attempt at a rehabilitation of the present through the prism of the past. The work explores ancient theories of matter in which luminous emanation gives rise to physical form. Taking the form of seven stages or seven failed experiments, the film draws upon the works of early light philosophers Roger Bacon (1214-1292), Agrippa von Nettesheim (1486-1535) and John Dee (1527-1609).

Runtime: 17m 17s

See it on Vimeo: Speculum

Please also see:
A review of Speculum by Francesco Cazzin.
A review by Simone Dompeyre, Curator, Traverse Video.

Available screening formats:
Single channel HD digital video. Source format: Apple ProRes 422, 25fps, 1080p, or DVD.

Credits: Directed by, camera, editing and sound: Richard Ashrowan
John Dee text readings: John Lambert

Screening history and awards:

ICDOCS, Iowa: Best Cinematography
Montreal Underground Film Festival
Strangloscope III, Brazil
RISC Rencontres Internationales
The Journal of Short Film, Ohio
Videoformes, France
Chicago Underground Film Festival
Papay Gyro Nights: Hong Kong & Papa Westray