Collaborative Workshop with Soft Agency
Two-day residency held by Soft Agency in the Lethaby Gallery as part of the Architecture is Climate Exhibition. Drawing inspiration from a lump of sea coal found on the banks of the Thames this residency explored stories of energy, matter, labour, trade, and pollution, to questions of “green” transitions and post fossil fuel worlds.
We began our residency at Thames Beach, learning about Sea coal; its history, geology and context both socially and politically. Sea coal is a mixture of coal fragments and other materials that have been transported by the sea and washed ashore. The composition of Sea coal can vary depending on the source and the specific location where it is found. Its presence is a reminder of the coal industry's impact on coastal communities and the environment.
EXCERPTS FROM 'TALES OF SOOT AND SULPHUR' HANDBOOK
On the second day of the residency we used the collected Sea coal to produce a paint. This process consisted of crushing the Sea coal to create a fine dust. The dust was filtered and left to dry out, after this process linseed oil was added to the dried out paste to create a paint like texture. After reflecting on the residency we collectively produced a painted piece.
VIDEO OF COLLECTIVE PAINTING PIECE
