March 24 - May 20, 2006

Social and political issues provide the conceptual framework for Kerry Loewen’s most recent digital video installation. Driving by Braille presents a man driving with his eyes closed on a California freeway. He uses the distinctive staccato beat of the Botts Dots (invented by former San Jose State University Chemistry professor, Elbert Dysart Botts to warn motorists of lane changes) to maintain his course. On the radio he is listening to President George W. Bush’s speech regarding the intelligence failures that led to the current war in Iraq. With the exception of a few choice words describing weapons of mass destruction, the entire speech is broadcast backwards. Loewen’s intent is to create a metaphor for how he feels George W. Bush has performed as President of the United States of America.

Driving by Braille is part of the ICA’s installation series “Night Moves,” providing after-dark programming in the gallery’s front and rear windows, giving the ICA a nighttime presence while animating the downtown cultural landscape.