Overstrung (live performance) by Maja Zećo

This durational, intense sensory performance explores the idea of the body as an instrument. Loaded histories of Western classical music training for me are closely intertwined with gender stereotypes, oppression, family violence and experience of conflict. I grew up listening to hours of repetitive piano practice in a room exposed to daily shelling during the siege of Sarajevo. In that room, I learned about love, violence and loss through sound that I experienced deeply in the resonant chambers of my body.

During this performance piece, I will attempt to entwine my limbs in the piano wires, which we know can make sound, as well as slice and cut tissues and interrupt breath. By tethering on the edges of (sonic) feedback, and bathing in reverb held by the gallery space, I will explore the tensions and vibrations of flesh and bones with the intention of probing deeper beneath the surface.

The performance will last up to two hours, and you will be welcome to leave and re-enter the space throughout the performance.

The interaction between the body and the piano wires could be triggering for some audiences.

The work might be challenging for sensory-sensitive audience due to loud and occasionally uncomfortable sounds.

The work might contain some nudity, and you will be able to take photos only for the first 15 minutes of the performance.

Information and support will be provided by performance assistants throughout the evening.

Feel free to bring your own noise-cancelling headphones or use the earplugs provided in the gallery.

A range of seating options will be available, and you can bring your own drinks.

Photos by Ingrid Jejina.