SHORT EXCERPTS OF VIDEO ARTWORKS by JIM SERBENT

Video excerpts are not currently available since they are in Adobe Flash (.swf) format which is currently being phased out from online usage due to excessive data file size and security concerns, e.g., hackability. When a suitable replacement format passes rigorous testing and is eventually selected, video clips will again play directly from icon links on this page. Until then, email the artist directly for information about and access to video artworks.



OUT OF DREAM V 2.0
Originally realized in 1981 and recently reedited and remastered for wide screen, this music/video art piece is an nightmarish indictment of the neurotic nature of urban existence where the only escape is to slip back into dream. An alter-ego with an ominous, Wizard of Oz-like visage guides the viewer through this neo-psychedelic maelstrom of angst.
Music / Art Video
Running Time: 5 minutes

 

THE VIDEO LIFE FORM SERIES
An original process creating animated abstractions from video feedback patterns through optical, audio wave and electronic colorization controls was key to the development of this ambient video art compilation. The title is derived from the life-like behavior and apparently spontaneous generation of undulating patterns of color, light and darkness. The Life Forms are essentially abstract paintings in motion very meditative in nature. Soundtracks of electronic tonalities accompany each of the fourteen life forms.
Video Art / Ambient Video
Running Time: 29 minutes

 

RETINAL CIRCUS
Over a hypnotic soundtrack, wave patterns, rotating animations and human interactions accelerate into a high energy, pulsating, kaleidoscopic montage specifically designed for playback in dance clubs. A complete revision is planned for eventual re-release as Retinal Circus V 2.0.
Video Art / Ambient Video
Running Time: 30 minutes

 

BENT CROSS
A woman, who as a child survived the WW II fire bombing of Dresden, once told me of her utter hatred of flags, the symbols of nationalism/tribalism that ideologically divide the human race. She said that she would like to see them all burn. That haunting memory became the catalyst for this stream-of-consciousness visual barrage against the controlling forces of our lives. Reediting and remastering are planned for eventual re-release as Bent Cross II.
Video Art
Running Time: 12 minutes

 

AGING ROCKERS
After visiting a fleetingly stylish Long Island night spot where I was scrutinized for being a decade or more older than most of the jaded dance club denizens, I penned the lyrics to this ode to the aging rocker. After recording the audio tracks at Manhattan's Songshop Studios, tongue-in-cheek visuals and unique special effects were incorporated to create this music video. It ends with the questions, "Do you still belong? Will you still rock on?" Reediting and remastering are complete. Aging Rockers V 2.0 is currently entered in film festivals globally.
Music Video
Running Time: 7 minutes

 

MESSAGE FROM SPACE
James Seven wrote the music and lyrics for this sci-fi space fantasy. It's about a madman instructed by aliens to destroy planet Earth by framing the Russians for acts of nuclear terrorism, thereby triggering WW III. Seven plays the "chosen one" in this black humored musical romp through cold war paranoia where Dr. Strangelove meets Don Quixote. Reediting and remastering are planned for eventual re-release as Message from Space Redux.
Music Video
Running Time: 6 minutes

 

THEME FROM "LE SACRIFICE"
Also composed by James Seven, this bitter tale of unrequited love, obsession and the casting of sinister spells sends our protagonist and lead singer, "Jim Serpent," on a dark journey from Manhattan's Riverside Church, through Calvary Cemetery, to Long Island's south shore where he meets his predestined fate.
Music Video
Running Time: 6 minutes
GO TO MAIN MENU/START PAGE
GO TO GALLERY SELECTOR PAGE