Back in August the church of St John in Hackney
welcomed an ambitious collaboration as part of their annual summer series
programed by Bird on The Wire.
The performance was titled ‘A Shared
Cultural Memory’, and saw three of London’s most innovative artists, each a
pioneer within their different fields, working together for the first time in
an attempt to create just that; through the use of experimental music,
performance and art.
Music was headed up by musician and
producer Actress, who’s conceptual approach to music, and somewhat dissident mentality,
lent itself perfectly to such a venture. A figure who is consistently referred to
as fascinating, enigmatic and complex, Actress reimagines techno’s weighty
industrial beats to create a diffused version of the genre that’s both brutal
and serene in equal measures. This audio in itself, resounding through the nave
of the 18th century building, made for an intensely visceral
experience, however the addition of performance and visuals added a ‘happening’-esque
air to the event.
The performance element came in the
ethereal forms of dancers, choreographed by performance artist Eddie Peake. Peake’s
innate comprehension of contemporary popular culture meant his interpretation
of Actress’ soundtrack portrayed an understanding of his musical style, which
ultimately resulted in a synchronisation that seemed effortless. Since the performance, Eddie Peake has gone
on to exhibit at Berlin’s Peres Projects, and collaborate with Kendrick Lamar- furthermore
exploring his interest in popular music, and the possibilities of cross-genre
collaboration.
An additional visual component was provided
by designer Nic Hamilton, who, by combining key elements from Actress’ and
Peake’s work, created hyperrealist projections depicting contrasting hard and
soft factors, teaming rigid structural forms with sinuous figures.
The completed article all housed within the
eerie setting of the Hackney church made for an evocative, stimulating and multidimensional
experience, which has been captured beautifully in a short film, just released over on WerkhausLtd. The film provides a new perspective of the show for those who were there,
and for those who were not, a chance to experience the unique event, as well as
become a part of the shared cultural memory the collective were keen to create.
Actress’ latest album Ghettoville is released through Ninja Tune today and is available for download here.
With special thanks to Werkhaus Ltd, Bird on the Wire and the St Johns Sessions.
Words by Amy Lee
Photo by Fred
Photo by Fred
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