In Performance: ‘Recapturing Memories of the Black Ark’
‘Recapturing Memories
of the Black Ark’
‘Recapturing Memories
of the Black Ark’
Inspired by the studio of Jamaican record producer Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Gary Simmons’ sculptural installation ‘Recapturing Memories of the Black Ark’ (2014 – ongoing) is both a literal and metaphorical platform for conversations, music, and performance. As part of his first exhibition with Hauser & Wirth, ‘Remembering Tomorrow,’ this ‘living work’ – comprised of amalgamated materials sourced from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina – will be activated with a series of public performances throughout the duration of the exhibition. Register for the live programs and watch past performances below.
Black Ark: ‘For Lovers Only’ with DJ Jihaari
DJ Jihaari’s vinyl set – ‘For Lovers Only’ – marked the first of a series of public performances and activations on Gary Simmons’ sculptural installation ‘Recapturing Memories of the Black Ark’ (2014 – ongoing) on view in the gallery’s outdoor courtyard.
Black Ark: Performance by dance legend Savion Glover
Dance legend Savion Glover graced the Black Ark stage to perform his signature style of dance riffing off reggae rhythms, joggling the imagination and culminating in a celebratory exploration of the creative process.
Black Ark: Performance by Lily Blue Simmons
Lily Blue Simmons, daughter of Gary Simmons, performed an original monologue depicting the loneliness, expected perfectionism, and pressure experienced by young females today as well as the struggle between femininity and intellect.
Black Ark: Poetry by Yesika Salgado & Music by San Cha
In a collaborative performance, Poet Yesika Salgado and singer San Cha explored themes of melancholia and longing in a gripping medley of song and poetry.
Black Ark: Tyshawn Sorey’s ‘For George Lewis’ by Monday Evening Concerts
Monday Evening Concerts performs the West Coast premiere of Tyshawn Sorey's work 'For George Lewis.' Sorey pays homage to George Lewis, a legendary mentor who himself has made an indelible mark on the musical world as a trombonist, improviser, teacher, writer and composer. The work was performed by ECHOI, the resident ensemble of Monday Evening Concerts, conducted by Jonathan Hepfer.
Black Ark: Gary Simmons and Elvis Mitchell in Conversation
Artist Gary Simmons and film critic and KCRW host Elvis Mitchell discussed the confluence of music and film touching upon the significance of hip hop and reggae as pivotal influences in Simmons’ career. After the conversation, Dante Ross, Grammy-winning producer, played his vintage roots and dancehall 45's.