A physical performance and storytelling techniques workshop series devised to complement Altered Landscapes, an exhibition by artist Juan delGado that can be experienced in the Gallery.

The workshop will be led by artist Juan delGado in collaboration with The Paper Project collective.

Overview
The aim of this workshop is to include participants in the conversation around the tragedy that is affecting refugees around the world. The workshops will explore the themes related to the exhibition; mobility, trauma, territory and the moving body, and will encompass the participants’ own stories around their own identities and journeys.

The workshop participants will have the opportunity to learn physical performance storytelling techniques and create a collaborative group performance piece. The workshops will be documented.

Goals
1. As individuals we are empowered to tell our stories. We have the power to make up our own reality through storytelling. The story is ours to be told.

2. To bridge an emotional connection between the frustration and tragedy affected by refugees around the world with reflecting on our own sense of self and channeling this emotional through physical performance.

Workshop info
Workshops will take place every Saturday from 16 April to 14 May inclusive, from 2-4.30pm. Participants are kindly requested to attend all five sessions if possible. Workshops are limited to 10 participants of 16 and over.

Session 1
16 April – looking at landscape and identity

This session will explore the exhibition themes and concepts, and include a walking activity in the area surrounding Watermans in order to take photos and find objects to restore and bring back to life. This activity will also introduce how the camera can be used to empower stories and journeys.

Session 2
23 April – considering what makes us who we are

This session will explore further storytelling skills, drawing, how identity is connected to the environment and personal objects and our sense of self.

Session 3
30 April – performing stories of journeys and identity

Participants will be introduced to physical storytelling techniques, installation, performance and interactive, and will work in groups to create their own narratives and physical performance piece.

Sessions 4 and 5
7 &14 May – creating a group performance piece

In these sessions participants will be able to develop a final group performance piece and rehearse it for family and friends (to be decided with the group). They will also explore with the artist his video performance Fleches Sans Corps, which incorporates elements of visual narratives, music and objects, with the possibility to work collaboratively.

About the Workshop Leaders

Juan delGado works across a range of media including installation and photography and has produced an extensive body of work that explores themes of trauma, landscape, disability, dislocation and gender.

www.juandelgado.co

http://talkingsyria.com/

The Paper Project is a community non profit group. The collective are made of young migrant artists who create inspiring and innovative, cross-arts performances. The collective’s creative practice and approach involves the usage of objects to create metaphorical, immersive and physical performances. Victor Rios and Salih Ahmed will be facilitating the workshop.

http://www.ovalhouse.com/about/ThePaperProject