Bob & Sink

Research output: Other contribution

Abstract

Bob & Sink is a short film presenting the spectacle of global migration and the perilous journeys often undertaken by the displaced as abstract visual spectacle. Developed from Spence (film and time-based media) & Zoë Irvine’s (sound design) previous collaborative exploration into domestic politics as a key theme in their visual research process.

The research methodology, led by Spence, utilised multiple existing and self-devised audio and visual recording devices, experimenting with different methods of recording sound and image to create deep sonic and visceral visual experiences, ranging from a bird’s eye view to below the waterline, using technologies such as hydrophones, drones and specially adapted underwater cameras. In this film, a group of oranges are suggested as a visual metaphor for global displacement as they embark on a journey navigating their way through rivers, burns and over waterfalls. Award-winning poet Raman Mundair, whose work often tackles issues around immigration, developed a poetic response which is presented alongside the work. 

Bob & Sink has reached a wide demographic and multiple audiences through each exhibition, with its first invited presentation at the Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh (2018), as part of the curated section of the exhibition exploring ‘Art & Poetry’. This was followed by a solo exhibition (in collaboration with Zoë Irvine) at the Parthenón-fríz Terem, Budapest, where the exhibition was an integrated part of Budapest Art Week (2019). 

Bob & Sink was included in ‘Confluence: Tradition in Contemporary Art’ at the George Segal Gallery and Kasser Theatre of Montclair State University, New Jersey (USA, 2019) and the Sichuan Fine Art Institute in Chongqing (China, 2020). The work was shortlisted for the Aesthetica Art Prize (2020).
Original languageEnglish
TypeMulti component output
PublisherUniversity of Dundee
Publication statusPublished - 2020

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