Tomas Nuñez produces work that is “seriously silly”. With accessibility, engagement and simplicity at the forefront of his practice, for his time at the Pilotenkueche, Tomas wants to produce art that is flamboyant, noisy, interactive and, most importantly, fun!
Predominately a sound artist, Tomas aims to sneak past the “gatekeepers of music”.
Through growing up in the DIY band culture of Sydney, a scene that invents spaces outside of the ‘realms of money-making’ and the hetero-normative definition of what a band and music should be, Tomas knows there is not one linear way to make music. For him, this environment is about friendship, community and experimentation, a key focus for his upcoming work at PK which he claims “needs collaboration” and audience involvement. He is also looking forward to possible collaboration with other artists in the residency and is planning shows in and around Leipzig, so he can keep performing during his time here.
Touring groups of deaf, blind and autistic individuals around artistic spaces, Tomas became very aware of the rule and restrictions of the public art sector. Working at The Museum of Contemporary Art and other installations such as Sculptures by the Sea in Sydney, it became clear to him that the gallery and art environment is one dominated by the middle-class, intellectual masses and is linear in its need to maintain a quiet and contemplative aura, one that excludes many.
The marriage between boxing and music will be Tomas’ main focus in his residency here at Pilotenkueche.
Approximately a year ago, Tomas began dancing around the boxing ring, and not just in the DIY music space; a combination prompting consideration of sound and space. The transformation of the boxing ring from an intimidating place to one of comfort and even “solace” was an important one for Tomas, building upon his work in museums and the questions of which spaces are accessible and welcoming.
After the first visit to the Alte Handelsschule Tomas has begun to think about what he will produce during the residency. He intends to produce “speed balls” (rubber coated objects with microphones attached) which will perform the purpose of a punching bag to be kicked, touched and interacted with by the visiting audience. Emphasising the similarities between music and boxing; their sensual, stimulating nature and their dependence upon collaboration and active involvement, Tomas’ work promises to get us all involved.
Written by Rosie Shackleton
To see more work from Tomas Nuñez go to his Vimeo or visit our upcoming exhibitions:
Almost Tension
vernissage:
Sat 29 Feb 2019
7PM
performance:
TBA
Alteshandelsschule
Geisserstr 75
04229 Leipzig
open:
Sun 1 Mar, Thur 5 – Sat 7 Mar
2PM-6PM
Hard Fluid Betrayal
vernissage:
Sat 21 Mar 2019
7PM
performance:
TBA
open:
Sun 22 Mar – Tue 24 Mar
2PM-6PM
PILOTENKUECHE
Franz-Flemming-Str 9
04179 Leipzig