In her latest cinematic endeavor, Lucy Raven presents Murderers Bar (2025), a compelling exploration of the removal of a dam in the Pacific Northwest. This 42-minute film captures the dramatic release of water, transforming into a newly formed river that flows from Oregon into Northern California, ultimately reaching the Pacific Ocean. This work is the concluding piece of her trilogy titled "The Drumfire," which includes Ready Mix (2021), a contemplative examination of concrete production in Idaho, and Demolition of a Wall (Album 1 & 2) (2022), focusing on the visible shockwaves produced at an explosives testing range in New Mexico.
Murderers Bar is currently showcased at the Power Plant in Toronto until March 22, with plans to travel to the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston starting May 20. Raven's trilogy delves into the themes of matter under various states of pressure and release, revealing the intricate relationship between nature and human intervention.
Raven's artistic journey began with an interest in fluid dynamics and the pivotal role of water in shaping the American landscape, particularly in the West. As she developed Ready Mix, she recognized water's significance as a concrete ingredient, eventually leading her to investigate the dam removal process. Her research uncovered the monumental Klamath River dam removal project, which aims to dismantle four dams--marking a historic achievement in environmental restoration.
Filming Murderers Bar presented unique challenges, particularly in capturing the scale and distance of the event. Raven employed innovative techniques, including aerial shots with drones, to convey the vastness of the river's journey. The film's structure reflects a chase narrative, likening the water's movement to a dynamic character, embodying both tension and release.
One of the most striking moments during filming was the initial burst of water released from the dam, an awe-inspiring spectacle that Raven likened to the birth of a river. This transformative event not only symbolizes nature's resilience but also prompts contemplation on the language surrounding infrastructure removal--a concept that often lacks the vocabulary to articulate the significance of dismantling such monumental structures.
Raven's work invites viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of human actions and natural processes, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship. As we witness the rebirth of ecosystems through projects like the Klamath River dam removal, we are reminded of the potential for restorative change in our relationship with nature.
The impact of films like Murderers Bar extends beyond the screen, inspiring conversations about ecological restoration and the future of our planet. By documenting these significant events, Raven not only captures a moment in time but also encourages a deeper understanding of the balance between progress and preservation.