Hot Contents [2020-24]
‘The spectre of industrialism will still – and must inevitably – haunt efforts at transformation, especially in decisions concerning the mess that industry has left behind’ [1]
– Jeff Shantz
– Jeff Shantz
Hot Contents is a visual arts project taking place in Darlington exploring the relationships between the past and present industrial heritage of the north east and the climate emergency. Looking ahead to a not-too-distant future where our adherence to narratives of growth has dramatically changed our landscape, Hot Contents explores Darlington’s industrial history, the sites of transition, the spaces of resistance, and the climate action that is taking place.
Through a process of research, production, presentation and critical discussion exploring the life-cycle of industry and the values that underpin it, Hot Contents asks: how can we creatively imagine ways to reduce environmental pollution and learn to live better with the waste we create? How do we re-examine industrial heritage narratives in environmental discussion? What practices do we need to learn, and what do we need to unlearn?
While it touches on the many interconnected issues that are feeding the climate crisis, Hot Contents looks at narratives of growth and resulting environmental pollution as a wider metaphor for living with the environmental crisis we have created for ourselves.
A trace – physically and emotionally – of what will be left for the future.
Through a process of research, production, presentation and critical discussion exploring the life-cycle of industry and the values that underpin it, Hot Contents asks: how can we creatively imagine ways to reduce environmental pollution and learn to live better with the waste we create? How do we re-examine industrial heritage narratives in environmental discussion? What practices do we need to learn, and what do we need to unlearn?
While it touches on the many interconnected issues that are feeding the climate crisis, Hot Contents looks at narratives of growth and resulting environmental pollution as a wider metaphor for living with the environmental crisis we have created for ourselves.
A trace – physically and emotionally – of what will be left for the future.
Works:
Recent Exhibitions:
Writing:
With thanks to project supporters:
