From 3rd to 7th April 2023, dance artists Julia McGhee and Penny Chivas, sound artist Nicolette Macleod, and filmmaker Alan Paterson will be collaborating on a new research project at CatStrand in New Galloway. Titled “21st Century Silent Movies”, the project aims to layer experimental sound with live performance and projected video, creating a modern-day, digital version of the silent films of the early 20th century.
During their residency at Lyth Arts Centre for The Morrich Project, the team tested this concept, projecting filmed outdoor performance work onto a large screen while Nicolette improvised a live experimental soundscape using amplified objects, voice, and sound recordings from the natural environment. The test revealed that layering the video with Nicolette’s live sound creates strong narrative connections not evident from the video alone.
To showcase their work-in-progress, the team will be hosting a free sharing event at the CatStrand on Thursday 6th April from 5.30-6.30pm. The event provides an opportunity for the public to experience the project and engage in a conversation with the artists. Everyone is welcome to attend, and reservations can be made at www.gcat.scot/arts or by calling 01644 420374.
