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Transitional Objects comprise three pieces: And Another, Living the Part and Under the Surface. Each piece features a fabric sculpture or prop used in performance. The fabric acts as a malleable frame for the relationships between performers, sustaining transient images and supporting connections in flux. Together, the three pieces frame shifts and merges of identities as they occur over time, in relationship to another and within the social context of a public restaurant.

And Another (2005) video stills

And Another: realisation, exchange, merge, restrict, oppose
4:3 SD colour video, silent, approx 6 minutes
Two found chairs, velour upholstery fabric, satin ribbon

Two found chairs reupholstered as one provide a connection for two dancers. The upholstery extends about fifteen feet on either side, and binds the dancers into its edges. A concertina system of ribbons woven into the upholstery transfers movement from one dancer to another, through the chair and across the length of the fabric. The dancers generated movement in response to words describing a variety of reciprocal qualities to relationship exchanges.

In collaboration with dancers Jessica Dickenson and Ricky Morant.
Filmed at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London

Video available by request.

Under The Surface (2005)
Satin, ribbon, heat set printed pattern, thread

Installation image above from Atlantis Gallery, London (June 2005)

Under The Surface is a three in one textile which can be worn as wedding dress, used as a table-cloth and worn as apron. Specific folds and ties facilitate the transitions between roles. The piece reflects on the traditional and conservative expectations of married women. In each iteration, the object gives away hints of its alternative selves. For example, the red ribbon stitched into the tablecloth doubles as the tie for the apron.

Living the Part: Social Fabric (2005) video stills

Living the Part: Social Fabric (2005)
SD 4:3 colour video, sound, white damask tablecloth
Duration 1 hour 38 minutes

Living the Part: Social Fabric (2005) is also a textile around which a performance takes place. Here, a white Jacquard embroidered tablecloth (the kind used in formal and fine dining occasions) has been sewn into a pattern which extends a setting for four diners. Each guest can wear the tablecloth, which physically binds them together into the event, partially masked, for the duration of the dinner party.

Performed at SE10 Restaurant and Bar, Greenwich, London.
Many thanks to the restaurant and dinner guests Lizzie Hines, Nico Hines, Felix and Louise Forrester.