Executive Orders

2017-18, HD video with audio (snare drum, cymbals, synthesizer, keys)

composed by Adam Aaronson

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Executive Orders is a 3-channel video installation that depicts a cardiograph mimicking Donald Trump’s cartoonish signature. The title refers to the president’s easy ability to sign orders that have the full force of law. Instead of the traditional beep, the crests of Trump’s cardio-autograph is synced with audio of gunshots, alluding to the swift action and deadly abuse of power with which the president can inflict on people with one stroke of a pen. With an added twist, Nguyen commissioned musician Adam Aaronson to create the sound of gunshots using the layering of traditional and non-studio instruments, anything except a firearm.