G: Tell us about the project?
Physical Communication is an experiential exhibition demonstrating novel ways of communicating. We have moved away from physical elements being integral to relay a message. A tactile representation of a message in it’s physical form seems more real than a digital one. Before the digital domination of our output, communication was established by a physical back and forth of material.
Experiential ways of communicating can be used to convey precise and exact messages and emotions. Lettering and conventional vehicles that relay information can be avoided and surpassed if the individuals involved are compelled to understand and perceive. Interdisciplinary modes of expression allows for limits to be pushed away or even removed. This means that language, geographical proximity and common ground between the communicators are not integral to interaction.
Endless messages and ways to express them can be an abstract process. What the point is, is that if we exist, we can relay endless information to anyone without limitations. The only requirement is the willingness of human interaction.
G: What is unique about this project?
This exhibition is based on my journey of realizing my potential as a creative. I sometimes feel limited by having to stick to one medium or role. As I was planning, there were more and more features that I wanted to showcase so I decided to create an event that was more about the experience of being there rather than only a platform to show my pieces. The idea became and event curated and produced by me featuring four other artists, music, food and drinks. All of the components in the exhibition are direct references to my experience leading up to this moment. Physical Communication is a very intimate and sincere presentation of my aesthetic and intrinsic life.
Physical Communication is now an event displaying the talents from many disciplines. Sound, installation, photography, textiles and ceramics are coming together to express common questions of communication in our civilization. The artists on display have been asked to create anything they wish inspired by the physical manifestations of interaction and communication.
G: How would you describe the art scene in East London?
The art scene in East London is hard to describe because it is so dynamic and mixed. There is everything from sophisticated galleries to bold street art. Juxtaposed levels of refinements and decay represent the wide range of people that call this home. The public art is what I find the most interesting. The obvious and more visible pieces are large murals made in a plethora of styles. I find that the smaller and more hidden embellishments are sometimes capturing my curiosity. These things are usually hidden and placed in more discreet spots. There are these colourful drops of paint that might be mistaken for stains or oil spills, but in reality they are tiny abstract paintings made by an illusive artist who roams the streets; tiny sculptures that have been flung on top of the bus stop roofs that look like spiky amoebas; a small man made out of clay sitting patiently on a brick wall looking at the passing trains from his perch. Site-specific art and sculpture is very inspiring to me since they become a part of the geography of the city. These items become a part of the environment we live in and thus a part of the identity of East London.
G: Who/what are your favorite Artists/Businesses in the area?
I am a big foodie and I cook a lot myself. So getting my daily fix of coffee is essential. My favorite coffee is served at The Fix. They have one location on Curtain Road and another on Whitecross Street, which I frequent. They have a mean Cappuccino and lovely baked goods that are irresistible. The interior is clever and creative with colorful walls.
On weekdays around lunchtime there is a great food market on Whitecross Street. The Wild Game stand has venison burgers with cheese and bacon. This is one of my favorite burgers in the world, and I used to live in America: land of the hamburger.
I usually walk everywhere. I love being and feeling local. Wherever I go, I keep an eye on my surroundings since the best things are usually cleverly hidden and anonymous. When I first moved East, I intentionally got lost on sunny days. Some of the parks and narrow alleys a have seen are impossible for me to find again. There is one park with birdhouses that are built in the spirit of compact city housing. Surrounding a tree trunk, high above eyelevel is a cluster of tiny openings into hundreds of “bird apartments.”
G: What are your future plans?
Such a difficult question to answer… My short-term plan is to finalize my stay in London. I have been here for five years and miss the feeling of being lost! I have gotten to know London quite well but I feel as if I need a new challenge: another chance to be new somewhere. Milan is an option. But while I decide, my brother will be hosting me in Zurich. So my future plans are intentionally short to leave room for improvisation and spontaneous opportunities.
The Physical Communication exhibition is an opportunity for me to showcase my different interests and skills. This will be the crown jewel of my portfolio to continue to work creatively with different teams and companies. So in short, my plan is to work with inspiring people on inspiring projects to continue my journey of creative expression.
Social links:
Twitter: @warmountstudios
Website: emiliesridsberg.com
