Art / News
Lift off for ‘Lost Afronaut’ at Watershed
A journey through “space, time and meaning” is at the heart of a new project that will be developed by the Watershed’s new artist in residence Edson Burton.
Burton is a writer, historian, programme curator and performer, who will now transform an unusual idea into an immersive experience.
“Tendrils of an idea: a journey through space, time, and meaning coalesced into Blues Song of a Lost Afronaut,” says the enigmatic Burton.
“This project may have wandered through the astral plains of the imagination forever, were it not for Watershed offering me this residency.
“This residency marks a journey from writer to creative lead on a project that can only be realised collaboratively. I can’t wait for lift off.”
The story will follow the Black Afronaut explorer as he travels through space recording a science series exploring the possibility of life on other planets.
Landing on a devastated Earth he discovers the origins of his civilization – his ancient ancestors escaped an environmental catastrophe centuries before. Then, having colonised a new world, its founders severed all ties with their racialised past.
The Afronaut composes a blues song and experiences the particular conditions which gave the song life.
Burton will be resident at the Watershed between September and January 2017. He will be sharing his progress throughout the residency and become part of the community at the Pervasive Media Studio.
He will also be talking about his ideas during a free lunchtime talk at the Pervasive Media Studio on Friday, September 30.
Read more: Watershed shortlisted for Cinema of the Year
Our newsletters emailed directly to you
