A collaborative project with Zoe Schoenherr. The project is a dialogue exchanging interpretations, references and perceptions of public spaces to develop work with a focus on balance, materiality and geometry. The works focus on dance and behavioural science to consider how the human relationship with urban spaces and architecture makes us feel and move. The works convey something that is paused for a moment in time, framing the world around, inviting reflection. Forcing Distance, is a sculpture created using hardwood, metal and rubber inspired by gymnastic, dance and pilates equipment to consider how movement can be choreographed within cities, offering ways to take breaks whilst leaning in ways where engagement is encouraged. 

A collaborative proposal created for the First Plinth Award shortlist at the Royal Society of Sculptors. Underpinning the narrative of our work is the notion of the word resolve meaning the balance between finding a solution and the point of collapse. The piece reflects upon our changing relationship to place and how the dimensions, materials, colour and configuration of the fabric of place influences the user and their needs. Reminiscent of theatre sets and how one stage can be reconfigured to support a different scene and set of person/environment interrelations, our work would be reconfigured over the course of its installation.

Like the construction of a play, the work would start with an introduction to the sculpture, Act I. Once the introduction is complete, the piece moves onto rising action, Act II, through the incorporation of performers. Here those central to the performance are aware of the need to find a resolution but are currently unable to achieve this goal. However, unlike a play, our work cannot find a resolution and remains in a state of doing and undoing. The piece starts as a simple minimal structure. The work then transforms with the introduction of performers, who further adapt the sculpture through bending, folding and moving components to suit their needs and movement.

With thanks to Ned Quinney for help with the animation.