Florence Peake FACTUAL ACTUAL: Ensemble

Re-interpreting and expanding on a performance at the National Gallery in 2021, FACTUAL ACTUAL in Eastbourne presented seven large scale paintings on unstretched canvases that hung over a gloss dance floor.

The canvases were animated by six dancers using a rig and pulley system to hoist, lower, collapse, fold and drag the paintings throughout the performances. Shifting between flat and sculptural forms, the interaction of bodies and paintings created a sea-like sonic soundscape.

Internationally renowned choreographer & visual artist Florence Peake presents a monumental painting installation that embodies her distinctive gestural, movement-marking techniques. A 50m long painting titled Ensemble envelopes the walls of Towner's ground floor spaces, surrounding the viewer.

Respected for her queer approach and non-hierarchical process, Peake often works with a multitude of diverse collaborators. This new painting was created through a series of workshops held at Southwark Park Galleries in November 2022. Working with community groups of all ages, participants were invited to mark the canvas with Peake through their collective movements, the paintings were further developed in the artist’s studio over several months.

★★★★ - The Guardian

FACTUAL ACTUAL: Ensemble is co-commissioned by Southwark Park Galleries, London, and Towner, Eastbourne, in partnership with Fruitmarket, Edinburgh.

This touring commission is made possible with thanks to Arts Council England, Cockayne - Grants for the Arts and The London Community Foundation, The Paul and Louise Cooke Endowment and Ada’s Circle.

This exhibition is sponsored by Harlequin Floors.

Development supported by Somerset House Studios, La Becque Résidence d’artistes and Wainsgate Dances.