The Sprezzaturameron
A video docudrama follows two men who must confront the precarious nature of art-making in an apocalyptic near-future. As they gain awareness of their own priv in a reforming world, the duo embarks on a vision quest to craft the perfect apology, inspired by the infamous apologists of the #MeToo era.
Sprezzatura is an Italian word coined in the 16th century by Castiglione in The Book of the Courtier. It is defined as “a form of defensive irony: the ability to disguise what one really desires, feels, thinks, and means or intends behind a mask of apparent reticence and nonchalance." It is this irony, the mask of the courtier, that The Sprezzaturameron seeks to reveal. But what lies behind this mask?
Presented by Baryshnikov Arts Center, 2021
Written and Performed by Royal Osiris Karaoke Ensemble
Digital Architect: John Blalock