John Akomfrah: Vertigo Sea at Arnolfini until 10th April 2016
Posted on: 20 Jan 2016John Akomfrah: Vertigo Sea will be shown at the Arnolfini in Bristol on the 16th January to the 10th April 2016.
Following the hugely successful presentation of Richard Long’s work in 2015, Arnolfini continues to explore the work of leading international practitioners in the coming months of 2016.
John Akomfrah: Vertigo Sea is the first UK showing of the internationally-acclaimed, three-screen, film installation Vertigo Sea which was premiered at the Venice Biennale in 2015. This poignant work weaves archival material, readings from classical sources and newly shot footage to create a film that explores man’s relationship with ‘the sublime seas’ as a means of migration and livelihood.
Our view of the installation: "The film itself is a beautiful and terrifying journey across all elements of captivity, linking the injustices of slavery, poaching, and whaling to the modern refugee crisis that we find ourselves in the midst of. A triptych of colours, textures, sounds and visual cues, Vertigo Sea is a warning to those who are told of injustice yet stand idly by, but is also a reparative piece that leaves you yearning for positive change. Each image blends seemlessly, causing your eyes to dance across the dark themes presented. There is something hauntingly beautiful about the film, and the richness of sound and vision afforded to it by the Arnolfini is absolute perfection."
During your visit, why not check out the downstairs installation, Tropikos. This is a self-aware costume drama with readings from The Tempest and To The Lighthouse, constructing a compelling and thought-provoking landscape touching on themes of shame, ownership, and freedom.
After showing in Bristol, Vertigo Sea will tour nationally as part of the Arts Council England Strategic Touring Programme that has been awarded to Arnolfini as the tour leader. The exhibition will be shown at Turner Contemporary in Margate and Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester, with other potential venues to be announced shortly.
For more information, visit the Arnolfini website.
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Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.
