This original and entertaining tour of life on Earth explores how many of the things once considered to be exclusively human are not: we are not the only species that communicates, makes tools, utilises fire, or has sex for reasons other than to make new versions of ourselves. Evolution has, however, allowed us to develop our culture to a level of complexity that outstrips any other observed in nature.
Common Salt was a performance around a table – a ‘show and tell’ by artists Sheila Ghelani and Sue Palmer. It explored the colonial, geographical and natural history of England and India taking an expansive and emotional time-travel, from the first Enclosure Act and the start of the East India Company in the 1600s, to 21st century narratives of trade, empire and culture.
In the performance Sue and Sheila activated insights into our shared past, laying out a ‘home museum’ of objects and stories about borders and collections, the Great Hedge of India, a forgotten naturalist – all accompanied by original Shruti box laments.
This book documents and explores the project, placing the performance text, images and reflections from both artists alongside writings by invited guests – from curators and artists to audience members.
Common Salt is designed by John Hunter (aka RULER) and published by LADA.
Part of ‘series of rituals practicing ways to dialog with the natural world’ by Fernanda Branco, MA in Performance Norwegian Theatre Academy//Østfold University College.
Art as We Don’t Know It showcases art and research that has grown and flourished within the wider network of both the Bioart Society and Biofilia during the previous decade. The book features a foreword by curator and art historian Mónica Bello, and a selection of peer-reviewed articles, personal accounts and interviews, artistic contributions and collaborative projects which illustrate the breadth and diversity of bioart.
As a botanist, Robin Wall Kimmerer has been trained to ask questions of nature with the tools of science. As a member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation, she embraces the notion that plants and animals are our oldest teachers. In Braiding Sweetgrass, Kimmerer brings these two ways of knowledge together.
Audio of the artist in discussion with Jospeh Morgan Scholfield. Event held on 13 February 2020.
Documenting the eponymous six year project as well as the current research and thinking around the subject with contributions by prominent artists, academics, activists and chefs.
Part of the Library of Performing Rights ( P3041).
Manning extends her previous inquiries into the politics of movement to the concept of the minor gesture.
A trilogy of hybrid art films of collaborative performances in epic locations around the world. Included the three films (Performances at the End of the World, Performances at the Holy Centre, Performances at the Core of the Looking-Glass) and a text about the project.
A performance-based short film, in which the artist inquire through bodily actions the creation and function of visible and invisible signs in response to the geologic.
Includes the film, trailer, stills, and film description.
Captured during a weekend-long workshop held in Glasgow as part of DIY16.
Part of the Library of Performing Rights (P3041)
Seeking to overthrow all constraints on what can be done with and to the body, Preciado offers a provocative challenge to even the most radical claims about gender, sexuality, and desire.