Shelley Lasica: WHEN I AM NOT THERE

For over four decades, Shelley Lasica has experimented with the possibilities of choreography, examining the relationships it holds with other disciplines – including visual art, architecture, fashion, theatre and literature – as well as the many and varied contexts in which it can occur. Her work has been presented in nightclubs, rehearsal rooms, outdoor public spaces, sports halls, theatres and galleries.

In her new work WHEN I AM NOT THERE, Lasica has created a performance-exhibition with choreography, costumes, paintings, sculpture, videos, texts and soundscapes that extend from her archive of past works. Performed by eight dancers, including Lasica, this evolving and dynamic work unfolds across two weeks for the duration of the Art Gallery of New South Wales’ opening hours and offers visitors a new encounter each day.

Drawing into question what it means ‘to perform’ and ‘to exhibit’, the work sees the dancers and objects in constant negotiation with each other, the space, and visitors. Indeed, Lasica’s choreography reveals the inherent mutability of not only dance but of all artforms, creating a network of relationships where connections and transformations are always happening.