Yaacov Agam displays models of multiple-stage theaters that would allow for numerous simultaneous scenes and audience movement created to simulate a theater experience that is closer to reality. The stages are arranged around the audience on pivoting chairs so they may turn to see different elements of the same actions. The models and plans were first displayed at a group exhibition held at Musée des National Décoratifs du Louvre.
In 1965, Agam received a grant from the French Minister of Culture and an original play by Michel Parent premiered at a theater festival in Dijon, France. At one point in the play, 18 scenes were occurring simultaneously. The review by Pol Kaniel, of the Israeli Cultural Attaché in France expressed that experience demonstrated Agam’s premise that even if you cannot hide anything, you cannot see everything, referring to the the theater and Agam’s “polyphonic stage.” (Argaki)
In 1980, the Guggenheim Museum in New York featured a retrospective exhibition of Agam’s works, which included in that an original play written by Eugene Ionesco – for the occasion. Due to creative conflicts, the play did not open with the exhibit.
Featured photo: Sarasota Herald Tribune, Aug. 10, 1980
Source: Agam: Beyond the Visible, Sayako Aragaki
