Join artist Rita McKeough for this special workshop inspired by her work, focusing on sound, narrative, and collaboration.
The intention of the workshop is to give voice to objects that hold a significant place in our lives and to bring them into conversation with us and with other objects and natural elements. The workshop will focus on the idea that both living things and everyday objects and materials (such as metal, plastic, or trash) affect the world. Physical objects, natural elements, and non-human beings actively alter, influence, and shape the world around them without human intervention. They do not rely on humans to give them meaning; things possessed of material agency may also act as vocal matter—communicating their histories, purposes, and impacts through their physical presence and independent actions.
For this workshop, participants are asked to bring an object they love or that carries meaning and memories. Through experimental writing and interaction, Rita will guide participants in constructing speculative narratives that raise questions about our relationships with the objects that make up our lives. Participants will then be led through the creation of audio artworks that bring these narratives to life.
This workshop is free to attend thanks to the generous support of the Alberta Culture Days Host Site Grant. Supplies are provided, but participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop if possible.
Space is limited and registration is required. Registration will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. To register, please email Heather Kehoe, Program & Event Coordinator, hkehoe@saag.ca
Rita McKeough is a performance and installation artist and musician. Born in Antigonish (NS), on the traditional and unceded land of the Mi’kmaq people, McKeough received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Calgary and Master of Fine Arts at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. McKeough works from a feminist perspective, and her recent work has focused on the impact of urban development and resource extraction on the lives and habitats of plants and animals. Rita is known for her large-scale, multilayered installations and performances, often comprised of complex audio works and electronic elements. McKeough uses sound as a medium to articulate the forces of resistance, giving her subjects voice and agency.
As a musician, McKeough is a drummer and has been a member of several bands dating back to the late 1970s, including The Permuters, Sit Com, Mode d’empoli, Almost Even, Demi Monde, Simian Crease, Confidence Band, Books All Over the Bed and most recently Sleepy Panther.
