Drawing Breath

To 'take a breath’ describes a physiological process and a moment of pause or meditation. Our breath connects us to the world; it provides the rhythm of life.

An immersive art installation that transforms the gallery into a contemplative exploration of life’s essence and connection. Supported by a Developing Your Creative Practice grant from Arts Council England in 2017, this project has evolved through mentoring from renowned architect Samira Boon in Amsterdam and refinement at TextielLab in Tilburg, Netherlands.

In 2023/24, with generous support from Bradford 2025, Capital of Culture, the project entered a new phase of research and development, culminating in detailed drawings and designs for a full-scale installation. The centrepiece of Drawing Breath is a large-scale structure inspired by the human lung. Crafted from ‘big threads’, wire and yarns, this intricate 'lung tree' mirrors the delicate branching of bronchioles and alveoli, with a colour palette of white and pale cream inspired by preserved lung specimens at The Gordon Museum of Pathology.

The large scale sculptural hollow drawing will cast a soft, ambient glow, enhancing its textures and forms.

A comprehensive public engagement program will accompany the installation, enriching the experience further. Spinners will demonstrate their craft by spinning yarns used in the sculpture, connecting viewers to the material process. Additionally, dancers will embody the concept of breath, performing movements that reflect the rhythm and flow of life.

I am currently seeking partners and venues to bring this installation to new audiences. For inquiries or information about hosting, please contact me. 

Image Gallery

Video Gallery

FILM 1 Sample construction part one 2019
FILM 2 Sample construction part two 2019
Drawing Breath Build 1 Prototype 4hours
Unpick- How much wool per Big Thread 2024

© Naseem Darbey 2024

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