The Extras, 2005
Vancouver Public Library
(Library Square Atrium)

In the 2000 sci-fi feature The Sixth Day the soaring atrium at Library Square was transformed into the corporate headquarters of a bio-medical giant that, in addition to cloning organs and pets, was engaged in the illicit replication of humans. As a party scene played out in the over-arching promenade, a crowd demonstrated, carrying signs and chanting slogans. Szuper Gallery and a team of local extras revisit this location to re-enact the roles of The Sixth Day Extras. Through replicating the extravagant gestures of political protesters and the clustered poses of the party guests this performance explores how extras èlive in suggestion’ in the background of Hollywood film, a foil for the Talent and standing in for The People. In cutting the principle players, Szuper Gallery leaves the extras and the audience gathered within a loose reconstruction, suspended together in suggested activity.


Set is a series of three exhibitions, a site-specific performance event and artist talks, exploring the concepts of rehearsal and re-enactment and how they relate to social roles, institutions, and histories. Set is curated by Lorna Brown and Jonathan Middleton and is a collaboration between the Western Front and Artspeak with the generous support of the British Council and the Vancouver Public Library. Set features the work of Judy Radul and Geoffrey Farmer, Rod Dickinson and Szuper Gallery, and is produced in conjunction with the Live Biennial and the British Council’s UK Today series.