Haroon Mirza’s presentation for Liverpool Biennial 2021 comprises two elements: a three-part video work, Pathology in Three Parts (2021) and a new choral performance The Three /\/\/\/’s (2021).
The event is held 21 May, 5pm-12am. You can watch here.
The Three /\/\/\/’s (2021) explores social gatherings and ritual, and is informed by the Fibonacci sequence and golden ratio – a mathematical phenomenon visible throughout nature and often applied in classical art.
This ongoing performance featuring Liverpool based singers could not invite an audience while restrictions apply, but has been documented instead, with the resulting footage forming the central element of the new three-part video work.
Pathology in Three Parts (2021) follows Mirza’s “modular opera” structure, and features two scenes or “acts” from a previous iteration, Construction of an Act (2019), either side of this new performative element.
As new acts join the repertoire, the narrative, based around a shaman who uses her voice to heal, unfolds exploring ideas of sound, medicine and mystical experience. Both works ask us to consider the sociological and physiological properties of the human voice, and explores Mirza’s interest in systems of belief, waveforms and patterns of movement.
Pathology in Three Parts (2021), will feature on Mirza’s forthcoming album released in digital format on the TAKUROKU label as part of a collaboration with Café OTO on 21 May 2021.
Featuring material commissioned by the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art for the Melbourne International Festival (2019).
Pathology in Three Parts (2021) vocal performance by Sarah-Jane Lewis. The Three /\/\/\/’s (2021) features performances by Anne Taft, Emma Bispham, Jennifer John, Steve Boyland and Tayo Aluko.
Commissioned by Liverpool Biennial, with support from Open Culture.
Specifically aimed at adults but is family friendly