Sleep

Sleep is a video work documenting a performance created in June 2025 through a research-creation period initiated by York University’s Creative Entanglement Collaboratory as part of the Artist in Residence program. 

Sleep is both a unique video work and documentation of a performance, which has been created for presentation in galleries. I began imagining this work quite some time ago, probably around 2023, although I wasn’t sure if it might be performed in public, proposed to festivals, or possibly remain solely a video work. 

Read the Audio Description:

In a spacious, light-filled gallery, a mattress sits in the centre of the room. It’s daytime, light has begun to stream in through a window. The bed is covered in pale peach sheets and pillowcases. The fabric is reflective and appears to be soft. I am on the bed, unclothed, with my eyes open. Although difficult to see, a slip dress the exact same colour as the bedding is draped over one edge. On the ground next to the bed are a pair of black, strappy high-heeled shoes. 

Throughout the performance, I do not engage directly with the camera. I am not asleep in a literal sense but perhaps I’ve just woken up or have been left to remain in bed. The light shifts until gradually a single stream of sunlight creeps toward the mattress. City noise can be heard outside: the hum of traffic or pedestrians chatting and walking nearby. The exact location isn’t clear, although based on the subtle sounds this is a city. A revving motorcycle pierces the silence. 

Subtle movements and gestures can be heard: the rustle of fabric and the mattress responding when I reposition myself. Before the work concludes a sharp, intense blast of sunlight cuts directly across my face.