Pascale Théorêt-Groulx

When in doubt assume the most dangerous case
02.28–04.06.2019

When In Doubt Assume the Most Dangerous Case immerses us in a world where sometimes contradictory atmospheres, like suspense, humour and appeasement, intertwine. The slow, calm narration guides us toward a fragmented and eventually tragic story that seems imprisoned in its own vicious circle. We sense a danger, but what is it? It is real or just our imagination?

The origins of this piece can be traced back to the town of Banff, Alberta. Surrounded by mountains, boreal forest, rivers and grizzlies, Théorêt-Groulx became interested in the psychology of humans when confronted by bears. After reading Stephen Herrero’s book Bear Attacks: Their Causes and Avoidance, the artist discovered how walking through bear country takes on a performative aspect; making constant noises, such as yodeling, guttural sounds, whistling, hand-clapping and banging pots and pans, is highly recommended. She also learned the story of a naturalist couple’s tragic encounter with a grizzly bear in BC’s Glacier National Park.

When In Doubt Assume the Most Dangerous Case combines excerpts of the couple’s gruesome story, some recommendations from Herrero’s book, and vocal performances inspired by the author’s suggestions. Through changes in tone, the artist has developed a fluid range of emotional states that are often more complex than language itself. This piece examines how fear and anxiety can blur our senses and thought processes, while also challenging the very notion of fear in other contexts where physical threats are nearly non-existent.