September 8th 2023, 6-9pm
September 9th 2023, 12-4pm
Ways to Speak Absence is a short film by Chris Alton, based on a poem by Matt Alton. It brings together spoken word, an original soundtrack, and a choral performance based on the chorus from Eminem’s Cleanin’ Out My Closet. The film addresses ways in which absence can be spoken, dysfunctional behaviours developed to deal with loss, and the (im)possibility of apologising for childhood rebellion.
The film is 6 minutes in length and will be screened on loop during the advertised dates/times. It will be shown in the artist’s studio* at Bankley Gallery & Studios, during the Open Studios event.
*Studio 29, 3rd Floor, accessed via stairs; there is no lift
Chris Alton is an artist based in Manchester, UK. His practice spans a range of media and approaches, including; socially engaged projects, video essays, textile banners, and publications. In 2012 he founded English Disco Lovers (EDL), an anti-fascist, pro-disco group. Other projects include; Adam Speaks (With New Mouths) (2017), a neoclassical treehouse commissioned by the National Trust; and What Mortals Henceforth Shall Our Power Adore (2020), a video essay that frames the trident as a symbol of colonial intent. Each project addresses an array of interconnected social, political, economic and environmental concerns. He's also an active member of the Quaker community and a skateboarder.
Film Credits:
Artist, Director & Editor: Chris Alton
Poet & Lead Performer: Matt Alton
Camera & Sound Recordist: Oliver Sutherland
Editing Support & Postproduction: Oliver Sutherland
Vocal Arrangement & Choir Direction: Kirsty Martin
Original Soundtrack: StevieRay Latham
Motion Graphics: Amy Gough
Performers: Zoë Alexander, Emilia Ballardini, Ele Bray-Giovino, Jen Coles, Liam Doheny, Lesley Fairbairn, Siobhan Farey, Brigitte Finch, Beth Plunkett, Hannah Reed, Kristin Skarsholt, Marina Stubbs
