Second collective drawing work in the Chasing Synchrony cycle, performed at Central Saint Martins, London in July 2017.
The work explores the sound of drawing, the physicality of the mark-making process, collectivity and synchronicity of bodies in action.
The work was performed daily for a period of 6 days during which it involved around 25 performers. Audience was invited to join in freely.
“In Chasing Synchrony 2.0, Dejan Mrdja creates a link between drawing, installation and performance. Instead of becoming a means towards an outcome, drawing becomes a shared activity that unites the performers and viewers in an immersive experience that connects them for the duration of the performance. Mrdja is here concerned with synchrony, with temporary linkages of people and bodies, examining how this functions under capitalism while creating a space free from commodification for people to relate on an internal, instinctual level.
The apparatus of the work consists of a round slate table resting on wooden supports. The table is amplified from below and when drawn on produces varying noises. Mrdja gives his performers instructions for simple marks to be drawn and varying materials including chalk to metal tools to draw with. The performances grow naturally and the participants lock into rhythms and patterns through intuition and improvisation.
Devising a platform that gives participants a robust sense of contribution to activating the work, each performance is unique and varies depending on the materials, participants and instructions. Rather than participatory works that utilize a somewhat passive connection with viewer-participants, Chasing Synchrony demands full engagement. In turn, the work becomes engrossing for both participants and viewers alike.”
Herb Shellenberger
All photos and video footage by Ben Lansky. Video editing by Dejan Mrdja