RECOMMENDED For every amateur naturalist, there comes a time when the mind begins to speculate on the fate of the Propel Fitness Water that tumbled out the back of the truck en route to trailhead. Such concerns bear contemplation, and make for populist expression. Directing a camera at twelve average participants and issuing the simple direction to release the most potent string of thought available, Todd Frugia manages to passively siphon out a deluge of meaningful ramblings. Introspective, reflective, passionate, funny, vapid and frequently Dadaist, the twelve-spar for viewer attention on small displays arranged within this intimate space under the Dan Ryan. Beneath its entertaining veneer, Frugia’s work exhibits a panoramic range of human reaction to the restraining presence of the relentless reel. Eccentric burst of laughter, yogic trances and fits of apology mold and break the silence among gospel-like disclosures. At first glance, the installation appears another attempt at the kind of rigid science lab art that often dominates hyper-chic scenes like Pilsen’s. Fortunately, this one worked well enough to rise above the crop of openings at the November edition of the neighborhood’s monthly open gallery night. (Patrick Klemz) Through Dec. 2 at Rooms, 645 W. 18th, (312)733-1356.
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