Dasein and Casein, performance reading with mnemonic drawing, 2014-16

The performance reading Dasein and Casein is recalled through the act of drawing abstract mnemonic symbols on sheets to be ‘read’ from one at a time. Rhythmic recitation of repeated words and phrases charts the connections between the Heideggerian concept of dasein and the protein supplement casein, which is used within the practice of bodybuilding. Through the lulling lyrical potential of such repetition, an equivalency emerges between the actions of handling food in the stomach and ideas in the mouth and mind. Produced as part of doctoral research conducted at Northumbria University, the work diffuses the boundaries of practice and writing.

Performed in 2015 at Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop and MART Gallery, Dublin and in 2016 at the Society for Artistic Research 2016 Conference on Art Writing, The Hague. Images from MART Gallery.