The Creators (2013)
durational performance
Installation view, Hatton Gallery, Newcastle
The Creators is a durational work performed during the installation, Oltramarino. Over the course of the exhibition, I enact a durational performance exploring the individualism and ego of the artist and scientist. Using the tools of a scientist and the conceit of an artist, I demonstrate the bringing to life of an image, using micro-algae, the creators of oxygen in earth’s atmosphere 3.5 billion years ago and thus arguably the original creators. The micro-algae are projected onto a custom-built arched ceiling, in a celestial scene reminiscent of Renaissance frescos. The image is alive, but over time all activity within it ceases. In a demonstration of the apparent superiority of humankind over nature, I then return once each day to create another image.
Photo credits: Colin Davison