Part of NIGHT MOVES, this public program accompanies (In)Sight, a collaborative exhibition by Kuweni Dias Mendis and Grant x Wilkes exploring what it means to see and be seen. Within the exhibition, light, reflection and image unsettle perception.
This associated public program begins with a ritual developed from Dias Mendis’ performance research into Sri Lankan traditions surrounding asvaha (evil eye), kata vaha (evil tongue) and ho vaha (evil breath). These concepts are understood as relational disturbances, carried through gaze, speech and breath. Rather than seeking to remove the three evils, the performance creates conditions for participants to lay down the burdens of the gaze, external judgement, internalised expectation, and the accumulated weight of being seen.
The assembly point is at the door of Metro Arts Gallery Two in the laneway, where the artist will begin the event with a short ceremonial process and movement. Drawing on a pot of prepared water, she will anoint audience members who wish to explore the process. The water has been collected elsewhere, at dawn, as part of a separate ritual moment.
Ritual Performance by Kuweni Dias Mendis followed by Artists in Conversation
Date and time: 3 – 4pm Saturday 19 September
Location: Gallery Two entry
The first part, the ritual performance by Kuweni, is silent. You are asked to draw on your senses.
After a short break, a discussion follows with all three collaborating artists.
All are welcome. Participation is not compulsory. You may just watch and listen. Seating will be provided.
The artists recommend arriving early to view the work.
Curator’s essay, ‘Laying Down the Evil Eye’ by Rachel O’Reilly is available here.
Image: Kuweni Dias Mendis, photography by Grant x Wilkes
