Homage à François Couperin (Butterflies)

Year Published: 1978

Creator: Permission granted for non-commercial use. For commercial uses contact Geoff Alexander geoff@afana.org

Format: 16mm

Color: Color

Sound: sound

Description: Homage à François Couperin (1978) 2m, dir. Philip Stapp. Also known as "Butterflies". A three-minute fantasy of butterflies and dragonflies cavorting amongst the pussywillows, Japanese-inspired animation accompanied by two variations on keyboard works by the Baroque composer. Uses a pointillist technique to provide a stroboscopic illusion where recognizable shapes become fluid abstractions, and where time is stretched to reveal the main patterns of the choreography. Exhibits a visual haiku wherein an invisible air current stirs the leaves of grass and blows back the butterflies. For more on director Philip Stapp, visit www.afana.org/stapp.htm