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The Redacted Manuscript: a reading/performance by Jill Magid

Public Programs

The Redacted Manuscript: a reading/performance by Jill Magid

December 16 2010

Jill Magid’s performance-based work involves immersing herself in systems of authority in order to explore issues of vulnerability, observation, and trust. The Redacted Manuscript is a performance based on her experiences working with the Dutch secret service (AIVD). Commissioned by the AIVD to create an artwork for their headquarters, Magid immersed herself in the intelligence agency’s methods, using the tactics of the organization to interview and collect personal information on undercover agents. Surprised by her ability to penetrate the organization to such depths, the agency censored many of the resultant artworks, including redacting a substantial portion of Magid’s manuscript for a novel based on her experience. In a dramatic conclusion to the AIVD commission, the Dutch Ministry of Interior confiscated the original version of Magid’s manuscript while it was on view in her exhibition at Tate Modern earlier this year. The Redacted Manuscript will be performed by the artist and four actors: Ed Vassallo, Charlie Kevin, Patricia Buckley and Aaron Weiner