Preface
As e-flux Film proudly presents the September 2024 edition of our online series, Staff Picks, we delve into one of the most influential works of contemporary art history: Dan Graham’s Rock My Religion. Originally created between 1983 and 1984, this iconic film challenges the boundaries between religion, music, and pop culture, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the interplay between rock music and religious experience.
In the 1980s, Graham emerged as a prominent figure in the art world, bridging the gaps between conceptual art, performance, and architecture. His interdisciplinary approach shaped a new wave of artistic expression, transforming the perception of boundaries within the art realm. Rock My Religion, in particular, stands as a testament to Graham’s innovative vision.
Rooted in the historical context of the religious fervor and countercultural movements of the 1960s and 1970s, Graham’s film examines the relationship between rock music and religious ecstasy. Rock music, with its pulsating rhythms and rebellious energy, became a medium through which religious experiences and communal spirituality were expressed. Graham masterfully weaves together interviews, performances, and archival footage to illustrate the transcendent power that rock music holds in inspiring collective religious experiences.
By looking back at the historical roots of rock music, the film delves into the powerful influence of American Protestantism, drawing connections between the fervor of religious revival meetings and the wild energy of rock concerts. Graham explores the transformative power of music, highlighting how it can create a collective experience that mirrors religious transcendence.
Over three decades later, Graham’s Rock My Religion continues to captivate audiences with its profound exploration of the intersections between religion, music, and popular culture. In the contemporary landscape, where music festivals have become the new pilgrimage sites and pop stars are seen as modern-day prophets, the themes and ideas presented in Rock My Religion take on an even greater relevance.
This edition of Staff Picks allows us to revisit Dan Graham’s groundbreaking work and invites us to reflect on the ever-evolving relationship between religion, music, and culture. Join us on this journey as we explore the aesthetics, social dynamics, and spiritual implications that have shaped and continue to shape our society.
