Dealing with the concept of time is always a central element in Milstein’s work. Time is examined and dismantled in an attempt to test its boundaries. It is treated as a fundamental existential force used as a motor and motivator. This motivation works in alchemy, creating material out of a void, and sometimes acts fatally. In “Girl in White” video work, time portrays the most basic cinematic triangle ‘subject – camera – object’. Nevertheless, Milstein’s work can be examined not only as a metaphor to the gaze in a cinematic, televised universe, but also to the nature of the relationship created between those who wish to “show themselves to the world” and the awakening, frequently harsh, reality of being in the public eye.

Ohad Milstein is a MFA Graduate of Bezalel Art School and currently a Film and Television PHD candidate at Tel Aviv University, where he also teaches. His work revolves around the disciplines of film and television, which are also used as the source of his still works. As he does in his video works, he transforms the still camera into an intimate, sometimes presumptuous tool. Within a closed frame, and a small, limited artistic act, he reveals the complexity and volatility of the many layers underneath what may seem like casual everyday actions; such is the desperate need to be seen and exposed, as unveiled in “Girl in White”.

The pleasure in showing yourself, introducing yourself, being seen and prominent, is transformed along Milstein’s work into an intruding, difficult experience. Furthermore, whether he likes it or not, the viewer becomes an accessory to the act of violence executed by the artist, having to accept the role of voyeur in order to watch the work.