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Palindrome I

... The recurrent theme that characterizes the performances

of Zouboulis-Grekou is that 'in the beginning there was action.' However,
although we are meant to consider that, in a way, action is a substitute

for thought, Zouboulis-Grekou's identification with the primordial essence

of expression goes beyond a mere analytical statement.
One of the most spectacular manifestations of this is presented

in their 'Palindrome' series of performances. Action here is in dialectic
rapport with thought. But just as action is produced by the incessant

palpitation of their bodies on the elastic screen, so is thought rendered

as a palpitating force in time, proceeding through innumerable
projections and regressions. It is illustrated by the use of a wide mélange

of images, coming from the past, clashing with the present, merging
with nature and with the most recent technological means. Action is now

emanated by a great number of signs emerging out of the space,

with man's history and freedom as the protagonist.
The re-appropriation of all these signs into the world of action is made

in order to embody other vital materials, suitable for transposing

the relationship with art on a physical and constructive level.
The history which lies behind the relationship of man with the making

of art is now re-enacted, but also brought into conflict with action

and with its violent, transformative qualities. At the same time,
Zouboulis-Grekou demonstrate that action as the primary form

of expression is in its turn checked by the overwhelming whole
of thought and order.

The concept of art as a 'palindrome' image of civilization

that Zouboulis-Grekou articulate here, reveals that every aspect
of existence and expression has a place and a function in the complex

edifice of all arts, but no position in time.

Efi Strousa

Antwerp, October 1982