Subtropics: XI — A Mini Festival of Experimental Intermedia

April 26—27, 2025, Miami, USA

XI Mini Festival of Experimental Music and Film

Deering Estate Blackbox Theater

7220 SW 168th Street

Palmetto Bay FL 33157 A weekend dedicated to the pioneering spirit of Phill Niblock and the Experimental Intermedia Foundation, will be presented by the Subtropics Organization under the artistic direction of Deering Estate’s artist in residence Gustavo Matamoros. 

In collaboration with the Cyland Foundation, Inc. and the Deering Estate, these events will showcase intermedia art that merges sound and film in groundbreaking ways. The event will feature live performances by Katherine Liberovskaya, long time partner of Phill Niblock currently heading Experimental Intermedia Foundation (XI)  in New York.

OPENING PROGRAM — APRIL 26, 2025, at 4 PM KL/PN OptoSonic InterPlays Video-Audio Works by Katherine Liberovskaya in Collaboration with Phill Niblock

Experience the potent and evocative creations of Katherine Liberovskaya performed LIVE with music by Phill Niblock. Their works capture 22 years of artistic synergy, blending dynamic visuals and intricate soundscapes. The program highlights the following non-narrative works:

– “Peindre La Peinture / Painting the Painting” (2002-2003)– “Four-Wheel Drive” (2008)– “Tilting at Windmills” (2015)– “LockStorm” (2020)– “Wind Waves / Rumble Mumble” (2023)

PROGRAM 2 — APRIL 26, 2025, at 6 PM Filmdances Early Films by Elaine Summers

Explore the early works of intermedia pioneer Elaine Summers, featuring unique “filmdances,” including “Walking Dance for Any #” with Phill Niblock’s cinematographic expertise.

PROGRAM 3 — APRIL 27, 2025, at 4 PM Phill Niblock Music and Films

Immerse yourself in the minimalist depth of Phill Niblock’s music, accompanied by films from “The Movement of People Working” series. This program offers a profound reflection on labor and life through art.

Biographical Information:

A Canadian intermedia artist based in NYC, Katherine Liberovskaya has been at the forefront of experimental video art since the 1980s. Her work often merges moving images with sound and music, encompassing video art pieces, installations, and performances. Known for her collaborations with numerous sound artists, she is currently the artistic director of Experimental Intermedia NYC.

As a choreographer, experimental filmmaker, and intermedia pioneer, Elaine Summers (1925–2014) was instrumental in founding the Experimental Intermedia Foundation. Her work, particularly her innovative “filmdances,” paved the way for future intermedia artists.

A longtime member of Subtropics Advisory Board and an influential figure in intermedia art, Phill Niblock (1933–2024) blended music, film, and technology to create powerful, minimalist experiences over his extensive career. As director of the Experimental Intermedia Foundation, Niblock curated numerous innovative presentations and developed a signature style characterized by rich, drone-based compositions. Experimental Intermedia Foundation NYC

Founded in 1968 by Elaine Summers, this nonprofit organization supports artists working in intermedia and has been a cornerstone of the experimental arts community. Under Phill Niblock’s direction, it became a renowned venue for avant-garde music and intermedia art.

Special Thanks To:

Anna Frants, Claudia Ariano, Lili Dominguez, Ileana Lopez, the board of directors of Subtropics Organization: Cyjo + Tim Archambault, Mark Weber, Duane Brant, Rene Barge, Jim Peele, Arthur D’Amato, and the new advisory board members Jennie Gottschalk and Fast Forward, alongside Alison Knowles, Trimpin, George E Lewis, Brenda Hutchinson, Steve Stuempfle, Steve Peters, Gregory Whitehead, Jim Staley, and Lou Mallozzi.

With the support of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners.