A great week for U.S.A. and Great Britain as 2 black people achieve groundbreaking firsts.
Barack Obama has swept to victory in a landslide vote to become the first black President of the United States. Meanwhile in England Lewis Hamilton wins the Formula One racing prize.
It's astounding that in the 21st century this is a 'big deal' but sadly we still live in an ignorant world.
I wish them both the best of luck for the future and hopefully they will inspire others to reach for the stars!
Friday, 7 November 2008
Tuesday, 4 November 2008
THE LONG NIGHT OF THE BIENNIAL BY TRACEY DUNN
Thursday 30th October was the night that many Biennial exhibitions stayed open until 11pm and many venues put on special events to celebrate this.
I visited TATE Liverpool to see a performance piece by Wolfgang Flur who was the 'drummer' for Kraftwerk when they were at their peak in the late 70's and 80's.The first album I received (from my father) was Kraftwerk's Autobahn so I was especially keen to go.Wolfgang designed a lot of Kraftwerk's electronic instruments and consoles.A real talented tech-head.
He talked from his book 'I was a teenage robot' for over an hour and then showed some film with his latest music on.There was a prize of a signed remixed version for anyone who could name a particular insrument Kraftwerk used somewhere.Answer was a mellotron ...no one knew so the question became 'what was the first instrument Wolfgang ever played?' I said the flute but it was the mouth organ.I had hoped that because I was the only person there who had read his book I would win the remix !! I didn't.
We then visited the Red Wire Gallery's basement in Castle Street for Daniel Johnson's songs performed by local musicians.Daniel Johnson is a very talented American artist and musician who suffers quite severely with mental health problems ( inc. bi-polar) but has been an inspiration to Spiritualized,Beck and the late Kurt Cobain from Nirvana.In fact Kurt wore a Daniel Johnson T shirt frequently which I think introduced Daniel to a wider audience.
I also visited Daniel Johnson's exhibition of cartoons a few days later on its last day.It seems Daniel has a real struggle with good and evil.He is constantly trying to defeat the' demons' that swamp him from time to time.The art is about how we are born innocent and can slowly become corrupted in life and lose that innocence.Some symbols used are toddler's building blocks and winged eyeballs.The more eye's a character has the more corrupt it is in Daniel Johnson's world.
I visited TATE Liverpool to see a performance piece by Wolfgang Flur who was the 'drummer' for Kraftwerk when they were at their peak in the late 70's and 80's.The first album I received (from my father) was Kraftwerk's Autobahn so I was especially keen to go.Wolfgang designed a lot of Kraftwerk's electronic instruments and consoles.A real talented tech-head.
He talked from his book 'I was a teenage robot' for over an hour and then showed some film with his latest music on.There was a prize of a signed remixed version for anyone who could name a particular insrument Kraftwerk used somewhere.Answer was a mellotron ...no one knew so the question became 'what was the first instrument Wolfgang ever played?' I said the flute but it was the mouth organ.I had hoped that because I was the only person there who had read his book I would win the remix !! I didn't.
We then visited the Red Wire Gallery's basement in Castle Street for Daniel Johnson's songs performed by local musicians.Daniel Johnson is a very talented American artist and musician who suffers quite severely with mental health problems ( inc. bi-polar) but has been an inspiration to Spiritualized,Beck and the late Kurt Cobain from Nirvana.In fact Kurt wore a Daniel Johnson T shirt frequently which I think introduced Daniel to a wider audience.
I also visited Daniel Johnson's exhibition of cartoons a few days later on its last day.It seems Daniel has a real struggle with good and evil.He is constantly trying to defeat the' demons' that swamp him from time to time.The art is about how we are born innocent and can slowly become corrupted in life and lose that innocence.Some symbols used are toddler's building blocks and winged eyeballs.The more eye's a character has the more corrupt it is in Daniel Johnson's world.
Thursday, 30 October 2008
KENSINGTON ONE WORLD FESTIVAL report by Tracey Dunn
Here are some highlights from this festival which is a celebration of Global Citizenship.Celebrating the culture of the many diverse groups in Kensington.Please contact Mark Jackson on 0151 233 6153 for more info.
Tuesday 4th November Czech Slovak Roma Event
Kensington Fields Community Centre
24 Hall Lane L7 8TQ
6-9pm.Films showing the Czech Slovak Roma community in the U.K. and life during the 2nd world war for the Roma communty followed by discussions and free buffet.Music by Gypsy Brothers.
Saturday 8th November Kensington Diwali.Hindu Temple, Edge Lane Kensington L7
6-9pm To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Temple.A celebration of the significance of Diwali with a tour of the Temple,an Indian band and dancers,free buffet and a firework light show.
Thursday 20th November Islamic Event. Al Ghazali Centre. Earle Road L7.
6-9pm Multicultural discussions and feast.Palestinian band,dancers and music.Tickets by invitation only.Call Mark Jackson (233 6153)
Tuesday 25th November International Day Against Violence to Women
Frontline church.Corner Lawrence Rd /Wellington Rd,Wavertree L15 0HY
6-8.30pm Discussions on the situation in Dharfur,Democratic Republic of Congo,Uganda and Liverpool around violence to women,children and child soldiers as well as the use of violence to women locally.Issues,solutions and oppurtunities for solidarity.Free refreshments.
Wednesday 26th November Yellow House Event. Venue to be confirmed.
7-9pm Young People from Kensington and Poland will perform an improvised piece about global citizenship through music,dance,art,drama,photography and video,demonstrating new skills learnt in a week long series of workshops.Call George on 260 2996.
Sunday 30th November Finale. Devonshire House Hotel,Edge Lane,Kensington L7
7-11pm A fun,happy celebration of global citizenship,led by the polish community.All who took part in ONE WORLD FESTIVAL will entertain you.Free buffet
Tuesday 4th November Czech Slovak Roma Event
Kensington Fields Community Centre
24 Hall Lane L7 8TQ
6-9pm.Films showing the Czech Slovak Roma community in the U.K. and life during the 2nd world war for the Roma communty followed by discussions and free buffet.Music by Gypsy Brothers.
Saturday 8th November Kensington Diwali.Hindu Temple, Edge Lane Kensington L7
6-9pm To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Temple.A celebration of the significance of Diwali with a tour of the Temple,an Indian band and dancers,free buffet and a firework light show.
Thursday 20th November Islamic Event. Al Ghazali Centre. Earle Road L7.
6-9pm Multicultural discussions and feast.Palestinian band,dancers and music.Tickets by invitation only.Call Mark Jackson (233 6153)
Tuesday 25th November International Day Against Violence to Women
Frontline church.Corner Lawrence Rd /Wellington Rd,Wavertree L15 0HY
6-8.30pm Discussions on the situation in Dharfur,Democratic Republic of Congo,Uganda and Liverpool around violence to women,children and child soldiers as well as the use of violence to women locally.Issues,solutions and oppurtunities for solidarity.Free refreshments.
Wednesday 26th November Yellow House Event. Venue to be confirmed.
7-9pm Young People from Kensington and Poland will perform an improvised piece about global citizenship through music,dance,art,drama,photography and video,demonstrating new skills learnt in a week long series of workshops.Call George on 260 2996.
Sunday 30th November Finale. Devonshire House Hotel,Edge Lane,Kensington L7
7-11pm A fun,happy celebration of global citizenship,led by the polish community.All who took part in ONE WORLD FESTIVAL will entertain you.Free buffet
Monday, 27 October 2008
'SAFE FROM HARM' AND 'BREAK THE CYCLE' useful advice for those experiencing racism or domestic violence
KENSINGTON DOMESTIC ABUSE SERVICE (KDAS) is an organisation based in Kensington,Liverpool which supports those suffering from abusive people.
'SAFE FROM HARM'
A service specifically for people from Black and racial minority groups and refugees.Call Gill,Jeanette or Natalie on 0151 263 7474.Monday to Thursday 9am-5pm or Friday 9am-3pm.In an emergency dial 999.Women's aid 24 hour line 0808 2000247.
If anyone is bullying you,using your immigration status to control you or behaving in any way that hurts you please contact these people.It takes a great deal of confidence to contact strangers to ask for help but don't suffer in silence.STOP the hurt and the harm.
'BREAK THE CYCLE'
An abusive person will rarely see themselves as such.In fact,if someone you care about is abusive towards you,they will probably tell you that you are to blame for their behaviour BUT IT'S JUST NOT TRUE.This is a common way of avoiding personal responsibility for being awful.
For domestic abuse problems ( and this can be emotional abuse as well as physical harm) call the same people above.REMEMBER domestic violence is a crime from which you deserve protection.
'SAFE FROM HARM'
A service specifically for people from Black and racial minority groups and refugees.Call Gill,Jeanette or Natalie on 0151 263 7474.Monday to Thursday 9am-5pm or Friday 9am-3pm.In an emergency dial 999.Women's aid 24 hour line 0808 2000247.
If anyone is bullying you,using your immigration status to control you or behaving in any way that hurts you please contact these people.It takes a great deal of confidence to contact strangers to ask for help but don't suffer in silence.STOP the hurt and the harm.
'BREAK THE CYCLE'
An abusive person will rarely see themselves as such.In fact,if someone you care about is abusive towards you,they will probably tell you that you are to blame for their behaviour BUT IT'S JUST NOT TRUE.This is a common way of avoiding personal responsibility for being awful.
For domestic abuse problems ( and this can be emotional abuse as well as physical harm) call the same people above.REMEMBER domestic violence is a crime from which you deserve protection.
Tuesday, 21 October 2008
A Trip To Africa in Black History Month by Tracey Dunn
I was invited to Morocco for 10 days from October 1st to help create a yoga dvd and also to make my own film.We arrived at Marrakesh and after checking in at the gorgeous Riad Magellan headed off to the gathering place Jamaa El Fna to see snake charmers with their cobras and various stalls and entertainers.
It's a crazy place filled with families on 1 motorbike with no crash helmets zipping through the crowds.The souks in the Medina were filled to the brim with metalwork,textiles,leatherwork,shoes,bags and lanterns.It was like a step back in time to medieval ages.So much character and so many people and animals.
The next morning we visited Les Jardins Majorelle.These were owned by Yves Saint Laurent and he also had a house there painted in' Yves Klein' blue.The gardens were filled with cactii and exotic plants.A memorial to YSL is also there after his death recently.
We then went to a hamman which is a wash house.I had a massage and scrub.I felt very clean afterwards!
That afternoon we travelled by coach for 4 hours to Agadir on the Atantic coast.There is a mountain lit up with the whole side saying 'Allah is Great' in arabic.The beach was beautiful and the sun was hot.It was nice to relax for a few days by the sea. Many thanks to Fatima Legrou at the Palais des Roses who allowed us to film in the grounds of the beautiful hotel.
Next stop is Skoura on the way to the Sahara desert.We travelled through many miles of mountains and desert for about 7 hours via Taroudant and Ouzazarte which is the centre of the morrocan film industry.Many western films like Kundun and Gladiator were filmed around there.
We spent one night at Les Jardins de Skoura miles away from civilization. and I sat on an unlit terrace to watch the stars after dinner. The houses around were made of earth and surrounded by palm trees and sand.It was like being in a scene from the bible.Scorching sunshine too,last year Skoura only had 7 days of rain.
We travelled back to Ouzazarte to meet up with Chris Pyper who we met on the bus the day before.Chris is a member of the Peace Corp who were set up by John F.Kennedy to help Moroccan people with things like business support.It is Chris's job to help the artisans who make silver daggers in nearby El Kelaa M'gouna about 25 minutes away.It's the town that grows roses and every May or June hosts the Rose festival.The town is filled with Berbers and the silversmithing tradition is 800 years old there.We visited the Dagger co-operative where I filmed the shops and showroom and met some artisans.
We stayed at Chris's house in a nearby village where they also make the daggers.They are ceremonial and used at weddings and dances.The Moroccans I met are very gentle,peace loving people.They were shocked when I told them about our problems with knife and gun crime.I was told it is even safe to leave your bags around and they would be completely safe.
In the evening we visited some homes in the village and were made very welcome with mint tea,almonds,dates and madeira cake.One lady had 15 children.I was given a berber name 'Rqia" she was the daughter of Allah and had 99 names.
In another house we had a meal with salad,tagine and fruits.Lots of the villagers came out to say hallo. It was a wonderful enriching experience.We gave some design advice for the showroom and talked ideas about improving business.
The next morning I heard the most beautiful sound I have ever heard in my life.It was the 1st call to prayer and lasted for about 40 minutes.It was truly hypnotic and otherworldly.I wish I had a copy of that sound/prayer.
We left the next morning with M'hamed and Chris to get a taxi to Ouzazarte.We met some people we shared a car with on the way to Skoura so again we travelled with them.From Ouzazarte we took a taxi to Marrakesh across the high Atlas and were they high!.Unbelievable.It took about 4 hours and we went through hairpin bends and really scary mountainside roads so high
up.
We travelled straight to Imlil,again across the high Atlas mountains for an hour.This time we stayed up at 2,000 feet-the same height as Mount Snowdon.We had to get a mule to carry our luggage up the mountain for 25 minutes to Tamaret's Kasbah Samra.We were near mount Toubakel,at around 4,000 feet it's the highest mountain in North Africa.
I met people staying there who had been to my school and the local boy's school and there was a retired school teacher there so it was like a school reunion.We lived for 2 days with the local Berbers more or less .This was real eco-tourism.I can not believe how these people lived in such harmony with their environment.Nothing was wasted and everything was natural.A truly great place.
Our final destination was Marrakesh and after a lovely tour with Hussain seeing eagles,camels and horses we stopped off at our last Riad.Thanks to Aidan Webster at Les Trois Mages for his great hospitality.I hope to stay in his apartment 'Dar Mellah' in Essouira on the coast next time I visit this country.I definitely plan to go back and film there and in Fes and Meknes,hopefully in the near future.It was with sadness I left the sunshine and people of this African country.A life changing experience for sure!!
It's a crazy place filled with families on 1 motorbike with no crash helmets zipping through the crowds.The souks in the Medina were filled to the brim with metalwork,textiles,leatherwork,shoes,bags and lanterns.It was like a step back in time to medieval ages.So much character and so many people and animals.
The next morning we visited Les Jardins Majorelle.These were owned by Yves Saint Laurent and he also had a house there painted in' Yves Klein' blue.The gardens were filled with cactii and exotic plants.A memorial to YSL is also there after his death recently.
We then went to a hamman which is a wash house.I had a massage and scrub.I felt very clean afterwards!
That afternoon we travelled by coach for 4 hours to Agadir on the Atantic coast.There is a mountain lit up with the whole side saying 'Allah is Great' in arabic.The beach was beautiful and the sun was hot.It was nice to relax for a few days by the sea. Many thanks to Fatima Legrou at the Palais des Roses who allowed us to film in the grounds of the beautiful hotel.
Next stop is Skoura on the way to the Sahara desert.We travelled through many miles of mountains and desert for about 7 hours via Taroudant and Ouzazarte which is the centre of the morrocan film industry.Many western films like Kundun and Gladiator were filmed around there.
We spent one night at Les Jardins de Skoura miles away from civilization. and I sat on an unlit terrace to watch the stars after dinner. The houses around were made of earth and surrounded by palm trees and sand.It was like being in a scene from the bible.Scorching sunshine too,last year Skoura only had 7 days of rain.
We travelled back to Ouzazarte to meet up with Chris Pyper who we met on the bus the day before.Chris is a member of the Peace Corp who were set up by John F.Kennedy to help Moroccan people with things like business support.It is Chris's job to help the artisans who make silver daggers in nearby El Kelaa M'gouna about 25 minutes away.It's the town that grows roses and every May or June hosts the Rose festival.The town is filled with Berbers and the silversmithing tradition is 800 years old there.We visited the Dagger co-operative where I filmed the shops and showroom and met some artisans.
We stayed at Chris's house in a nearby village where they also make the daggers.They are ceremonial and used at weddings and dances.The Moroccans I met are very gentle,peace loving people.They were shocked when I told them about our problems with knife and gun crime.I was told it is even safe to leave your bags around and they would be completely safe.
In the evening we visited some homes in the village and were made very welcome with mint tea,almonds,dates and madeira cake.One lady had 15 children.I was given a berber name 'Rqia" she was the daughter of Allah and had 99 names.
In another house we had a meal with salad,tagine and fruits.Lots of the villagers came out to say hallo. It was a wonderful enriching experience.We gave some design advice for the showroom and talked ideas about improving business.
The next morning I heard the most beautiful sound I have ever heard in my life.It was the 1st call to prayer and lasted for about 40 minutes.It was truly hypnotic and otherworldly.I wish I had a copy of that sound/prayer.
We left the next morning with M'hamed and Chris to get a taxi to Ouzazarte.We met some people we shared a car with on the way to Skoura so again we travelled with them.From Ouzazarte we took a taxi to Marrakesh across the high Atlas and were they high!.Unbelievable.It took about 4 hours and we went through hairpin bends and really scary mountainside roads so high
up.
We travelled straight to Imlil,again across the high Atlas mountains for an hour.This time we stayed up at 2,000 feet-the same height as Mount Snowdon.We had to get a mule to carry our luggage up the mountain for 25 minutes to Tamaret's Kasbah Samra.We were near mount Toubakel,at around 4,000 feet it's the highest mountain in North Africa.
I met people staying there who had been to my school and the local boy's school and there was a retired school teacher there so it was like a school reunion.We lived for 2 days with the local Berbers more or less .This was real eco-tourism.I can not believe how these people lived in such harmony with their environment.Nothing was wasted and everything was natural.A truly great place.
Our final destination was Marrakesh and after a lovely tour with Hussain seeing eagles,camels and horses we stopped off at our last Riad.Thanks to Aidan Webster at Les Trois Mages for his great hospitality.I hope to stay in his apartment 'Dar Mellah' in Essouira on the coast next time I visit this country.I definitely plan to go back and film there and in Fes and Meknes,hopefully in the near future.It was with sadness I left the sunshine and people of this African country.A life changing experience for sure!!
Tuesday, 30 September 2008
SOME POEMS BY TOXTETH BORN N. SALEH HAMED
Family
I have dark secrets that I cannot tell.
As a young child I learned life was hell.
My mother taught me nought,of things familial,
So I hid my pain deeply,and my feelings well.
Then slowly the pain and the hell were banished.
Now that hidden pain,has faded,has vanished.
For you,mother of my children,with time,have
Taught me the beauty of all things familial.
No man was ever given such wonders in life,
As I myself,have been given from you.
For from you,our children,and grandchildren.
I have learned that familial love is real,is true.
Family days of sunshine,family days of rain,
Are golden memories,that I recall happily,
Smiles,and giggles,and laughter,and pain.
The joy of life comes to me,from you my family.
It humbles me,and amazes me to know you care,
And that I am given so much for so little in return.
In these my twilight years,I no longer count my tears.
I look back joyfully,and count my many blessings.
So mother of my children,friend all of my life,
Witness to the loneliness of my childhood days,
And to those dark secrets,that I cannot bear to tell.
Thank you for your boundless love,is what I really want to say!
Before Time Existed
Once upon a time
There were no clocks.
No "morning,noon or night".
Only "darkness following light".
Buds,then blooms,then fruition.
Birth and life,then death---
Then men! Suddenly,became aware!
And "thus" began to control,
By the creation of "power games"
Played by avaricious man.
Natures "cruellist--animal".
That antagaonistic belligerent beast.
That species,of evil deeds.
Which now,races helter-skelter
Towards "times" very destruction.
With time "controlled"
No time for love!
Time "destroyed"
No time for peace!
Time on hold
As time for war!
I question this,
Is time,for "sure?"
Old Man's Time
There was a time when all people
Around and about me,were older.
Now here,in this time,most people
Around and about me,are younger.
But back then,in younger times.
I myself,felt I was much wiser,
And far more knowledgable
Than all the age'd around and about me.
And in this time,when most people
Around and about me are younger.
I feel that in this place,in time.
I look upon the young,as sage less!
They have no knowledge,or wisdom,
Their time is spent in aimlessness.
In the pursuit of imagery without substance,
Chasing,consuming,wasting,losing.
Or am I wrong,am I filled with envy?
Because I cannot dance with wild abandon.
Is the music I hear,like that of my youth?
Am I better than they,or has my day ended?
Is this a natural process,this raging?
This anger at youth,this fear of ageing?
Can I not fade into time,with grace?
Leaving for youth,it's youthful time,and space!
I have dark secrets that I cannot tell.
As a young child I learned life was hell.
My mother taught me nought,of things familial,
So I hid my pain deeply,and my feelings well.
Then slowly the pain and the hell were banished.
Now that hidden pain,has faded,has vanished.
For you,mother of my children,with time,have
Taught me the beauty of all things familial.
No man was ever given such wonders in life,
As I myself,have been given from you.
For from you,our children,and grandchildren.
I have learned that familial love is real,is true.
Family days of sunshine,family days of rain,
Are golden memories,that I recall happily,
Smiles,and giggles,and laughter,and pain.
The joy of life comes to me,from you my family.
It humbles me,and amazes me to know you care,
And that I am given so much for so little in return.
In these my twilight years,I no longer count my tears.
I look back joyfully,and count my many blessings.
So mother of my children,friend all of my life,
Witness to the loneliness of my childhood days,
And to those dark secrets,that I cannot bear to tell.
Thank you for your boundless love,is what I really want to say!
Before Time Existed
Once upon a time
There were no clocks.
No "morning,noon or night".
Only "darkness following light".
Buds,then blooms,then fruition.
Birth and life,then death---
Then men! Suddenly,became aware!
And "thus" began to control,
By the creation of "power games"
Played by avaricious man.
Natures "cruellist--animal".
That antagaonistic belligerent beast.
That species,of evil deeds.
Which now,races helter-skelter
Towards "times" very destruction.
With time "controlled"
No time for love!
Time "destroyed"
No time for peace!
Time on hold
As time for war!
I question this,
Is time,for "sure?"
Old Man's Time
There was a time when all people
Around and about me,were older.
Now here,in this time,most people
Around and about me,are younger.
But back then,in younger times.
I myself,felt I was much wiser,
And far more knowledgable
Than all the age'd around and about me.
And in this time,when most people
Around and about me are younger.
I feel that in this place,in time.
I look upon the young,as sage less!
They have no knowledge,or wisdom,
Their time is spent in aimlessness.
In the pursuit of imagery without substance,
Chasing,consuming,wasting,losing.
Or am I wrong,am I filled with envy?
Because I cannot dance with wild abandon.
Is the music I hear,like that of my youth?
Am I better than they,or has my day ended?
Is this a natural process,this raging?
This anger at youth,this fear of ageing?
Can I not fade into time,with grace?
Leaving for youth,it's youthful time,and space!
Thursday, 25 September 2008
Liverpool Biennial Opening weekend Report by Tracey Dunn
I met Berlin artist Isabelle Graeff at her solo show 'Romance is dead' in Trolley Gallery,Shoreditch,East London a couple of weeks ago. We got talking and she gave me her details so when I returned to Liverpool I decided to invite her to stay for the Biennial opening weekend.
Isabelle arrived on thursday afternoon with 10 lycra skintight allover body suits in white or black.These were in all sizes and beautifully embroidered with crystals and metallic beads by an elderly Romanian seamstress.
This was no traditional embroidery but patterns relating to plastic surgery markings that would be drawn onto the skin by surgeons prior to performing surgery.
The artist wanted to raise issues concerning the way women are keen to put their bodies under the scalpel and either having parts sucked out with liposuction or having parts inserted i.e. breast enlargements.
I spent 24 hours with Isabelle and curator/film script editor Colin Welsh finding performance artists.We visited Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts,the Biennial information centre and Mello Mello.I even texted all my female friends to see who we could find.We had started off the day at the press preview at The Walker Art Gallery's John Moore's exhibition.I was amazed at how much of the art related to rooms/domestic interiors after the last Biennials overtly pastoral,foliagey,outdoor garden themes.
Finally it all came together as the 'Plastic Surgery' performance took place at the TATE Gallery and Afoundation,Greenland St.I was busy at my own private view in St. Bride's church, Toxteth where I was showing 3 short films I'd made along with First Take so couldn't make it.
I went to Atelier Bow Bow's show at the decking and gravel amphitheatre opposite St. Luke's church which was a fast paced party performance with individual monologues and a very funny bit with one of the actor's speed eating spaghetti.
Then it was time for Greenland Street where there were pleny of free bars and food.It was a pleasant evening weatherwise and the place was packed.I looked at Bloomberg New Contemporaries which was filled with quirky art from graduates.The giant black hair sculpture like a rococo giant chandelier yeti was especially interesting.The Afoundation commissions were bizarre as per usual.Apparently one artist had filled the 'prefabs' with junk furniture and fittings but removed everything the day before and replaced the rooms with photos of what he put in the rooms instead.I wonder if that annoyed the AFoundation people,or whether they supported the artists idea?
There was a lot of dancing going on and then I was given a wristband for the official afterparty in a huge warehouse opposite NOVAS.It was very busy and full of paper strip alcoves and giant rusted chains,original warehouse fittings.There were beautiful chaise longues and comfortable sofas and coffee tables.Plenty of space in the chill out zones.
I flitted between NOVAS where there were 3 amazing drag queens dancing away in the theatre space and back to Afoundation's coach shed and finished the evening at the biennial afterparty.
Next day ,saturday, Isabelle and I went up to the Florrie in the Dingle to work with a japanese artist who was comissioned by Jump Ship Rat to build a dome from willow with Tom Calderbank and local artists and residents.The sun was shining and the finished dome,an original feature missing from the Florrie was beautiful.I helped Minoko from 'Art In Liverpool' create origami paper wishes.Everbody present was asked to write a wish and tie it to the dome.We then headed to a local pub for light refreshments.
I went straight to 'Wave if you're already there' by Mercy and WaveMachines.It was called the 'Wedding'.Fitting really as it was at St.Bride's church.Sadly the beautiful bride was jilted and proceeded to spend the whole evening walking slowly like a wraith round the church cutting up her wedding dress and then trying to sew it back together.It brought a lump to my throat.The rest of the evewning consisted of comedy,poems and bands.
Sunday morning I was invited for breakfast at Sumer Erik's newspaper house in the Blackie.It was great to see lots of local artists and we all tucked into croissants,jams,cheeses,olives grapes,pears,apples,oranges,nuts and nice tasty breads.Of course this was washed down with tea,coffee and fresh juices.Exactly what was needed as all this art was taking it's toll on my immune system.Again it was a beautiful sunny day so a few of us strolled up to the Hope St Festival for an afternoon of surreal entertainment at the 'Market of Optimism' where I spent my free neuros currency on making a wish at the magic wish stall.
We then headed to the Everyman where loads of people I knew descended on the lively performance by local musician (and legend!) Barry Sutton ex Walking Seeds and La's.
The next day,monday, I visited Gostin's arcade for John O' Neill and Richard Young's artworks and then onto the TATE.I liked Rachael Goodyear's sketches with lots of wild aimals morphing with humans and I thought Charles Avery's world was pretty impressive.It seems there is a definite trend this Biennial and it was construction and domestic interiors and animals.Lots of rooms and building construction going on everywhere.Just like the city really these last few years.
Tuesday I visited FACT to see the video artist's work on the 1st floor gallery.I had been on the panel at the live web debate by 'Tenantspin'from FACT's Box the previous week and listened to the artists as they discussed their work.I also talked about my short films and the 'Independent' strand of the Liverpool Biennial.I enjoyed all the work but I especially liked the ground floor's space with what was like a trip into outer space.I put on my 3D glasses and sat in the darkened room lit with red and green strobes and watched the film which truly felt like being in a spaceship and visiting another planet.Very zen like and surreal.Also loved the scary drone like white noise.
Onwards to Greenland Street to see more stuff with my friend the artist Richard Ashworth on his birthday. So many videos based on constuction..all ladders and hard hats.Enjoyed the film where the hand was moving everything around so it looked like it was tiny.Very simple yet so effective.We loved Jason Underhill's 'Jessie' video with the full on ravings about the homeless in America, we absolutely loved her!
The Korean embroidered paintings were good as were their films.The golden room at the Blade Factory was a little disturbing..lots of piercings,cling film and blood letting with Franco and other body artists.Beautifully presented though I must say.Time now for a rest until tonight's visit to Arena's private view in Jordan st.
Isabelle arrived on thursday afternoon with 10 lycra skintight allover body suits in white or black.These were in all sizes and beautifully embroidered with crystals and metallic beads by an elderly Romanian seamstress.
This was no traditional embroidery but patterns relating to plastic surgery markings that would be drawn onto the skin by surgeons prior to performing surgery.
The artist wanted to raise issues concerning the way women are keen to put their bodies under the scalpel and either having parts sucked out with liposuction or having parts inserted i.e. breast enlargements.
I spent 24 hours with Isabelle and curator/film script editor Colin Welsh finding performance artists.We visited Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts,the Biennial information centre and Mello Mello.I even texted all my female friends to see who we could find.We had started off the day at the press preview at The Walker Art Gallery's John Moore's exhibition.I was amazed at how much of the art related to rooms/domestic interiors after the last Biennials overtly pastoral,foliagey,outdoor garden themes.
Finally it all came together as the 'Plastic Surgery' performance took place at the TATE Gallery and Afoundation,Greenland St.I was busy at my own private view in St. Bride's church, Toxteth where I was showing 3 short films I'd made along with First Take so couldn't make it.
I went to Atelier Bow Bow's show at the decking and gravel amphitheatre opposite St. Luke's church which was a fast paced party performance with individual monologues and a very funny bit with one of the actor's speed eating spaghetti.
Then it was time for Greenland Street where there were pleny of free bars and food.It was a pleasant evening weatherwise and the place was packed.I looked at Bloomberg New Contemporaries which was filled with quirky art from graduates.The giant black hair sculpture like a rococo giant chandelier yeti was especially interesting.The Afoundation commissions were bizarre as per usual.Apparently one artist had filled the 'prefabs' with junk furniture and fittings but removed everything the day before and replaced the rooms with photos of what he put in the rooms instead.I wonder if that annoyed the AFoundation people,or whether they supported the artists idea?
There was a lot of dancing going on and then I was given a wristband for the official afterparty in a huge warehouse opposite NOVAS.It was very busy and full of paper strip alcoves and giant rusted chains,original warehouse fittings.There were beautiful chaise longues and comfortable sofas and coffee tables.Plenty of space in the chill out zones.
I flitted between NOVAS where there were 3 amazing drag queens dancing away in the theatre space and back to Afoundation's coach shed and finished the evening at the biennial afterparty.
Next day ,saturday, Isabelle and I went up to the Florrie in the Dingle to work with a japanese artist who was comissioned by Jump Ship Rat to build a dome from willow with Tom Calderbank and local artists and residents.The sun was shining and the finished dome,an original feature missing from the Florrie was beautiful.I helped Minoko from 'Art In Liverpool' create origami paper wishes.Everbody present was asked to write a wish and tie it to the dome.We then headed to a local pub for light refreshments.
I went straight to 'Wave if you're already there' by Mercy and WaveMachines.It was called the 'Wedding'.Fitting really as it was at St.Bride's church.Sadly the beautiful bride was jilted and proceeded to spend the whole evening walking slowly like a wraith round the church cutting up her wedding dress and then trying to sew it back together.It brought a lump to my throat.The rest of the evewning consisted of comedy,poems and bands.
Sunday morning I was invited for breakfast at Sumer Erik's newspaper house in the Blackie.It was great to see lots of local artists and we all tucked into croissants,jams,cheeses,olives grapes,pears,apples,oranges,nuts and nice tasty breads.Of course this was washed down with tea,coffee and fresh juices.Exactly what was needed as all this art was taking it's toll on my immune system.Again it was a beautiful sunny day so a few of us strolled up to the Hope St Festival for an afternoon of surreal entertainment at the 'Market of Optimism' where I spent my free neuros currency on making a wish at the magic wish stall.
We then headed to the Everyman where loads of people I knew descended on the lively performance by local musician (and legend!) Barry Sutton ex Walking Seeds and La's.
The next day,monday, I visited Gostin's arcade for John O' Neill and Richard Young's artworks and then onto the TATE.I liked Rachael Goodyear's sketches with lots of wild aimals morphing with humans and I thought Charles Avery's world was pretty impressive.It seems there is a definite trend this Biennial and it was construction and domestic interiors and animals.Lots of rooms and building construction going on everywhere.Just like the city really these last few years.
Tuesday I visited FACT to see the video artist's work on the 1st floor gallery.I had been on the panel at the live web debate by 'Tenantspin'from FACT's Box the previous week and listened to the artists as they discussed their work.I also talked about my short films and the 'Independent' strand of the Liverpool Biennial.I enjoyed all the work but I especially liked the ground floor's space with what was like a trip into outer space.I put on my 3D glasses and sat in the darkened room lit with red and green strobes and watched the film which truly felt like being in a spaceship and visiting another planet.Very zen like and surreal.Also loved the scary drone like white noise.
Onwards to Greenland Street to see more stuff with my friend the artist Richard Ashworth on his birthday. So many videos based on constuction..all ladders and hard hats.Enjoyed the film where the hand was moving everything around so it looked like it was tiny.Very simple yet so effective.We loved Jason Underhill's 'Jessie' video with the full on ravings about the homeless in America, we absolutely loved her!
The Korean embroidered paintings were good as were their films.The golden room at the Blade Factory was a little disturbing..lots of piercings,cling film and blood letting with Franco and other body artists.Beautifully presented though I must say.Time now for a rest until tonight's visit to Arena's private view in Jordan st.
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