Explore themes of rituals, seasonal change, transformation, the environment and mythology in Henderson's installation
In this installation, Tamara Henderson studies dreams and states of consciousness to create striking forms across a variety of media. Of Seasons End consists of ten works, including sculpture, painting, textiles and a film. They are part of Henderson’s larger series Seasons End, which was developed between 2016 and 2018.
Henderson’s sculptures appear as a cast of characters. Two curtains displayed nearby contribute to the sense of theatricality in these works. Several feature eyes, suggesting that the figures are witnesses to our world. Many also include found objects and materials that Henderson collected as she travelled while making the works. These journeys are mapped in the sculpture X-RAYED PATH 2016 and visible in brief shots in the film.
In Henderson’s film, her sculptures are animated by unseen devices, often spinning to show the compositions on their front and back sides. They are also seen being worn as costumes in a performance. She makes a connection between the film and the sculptures through the pattern of rectangular pockets sewn down the sides of the garments, suggesting a filmstrip. For the artist, sewing and filmmaking are linked. She has considered how material moves through a sewing machine in much the same way as film moves through a projector.
Together, the various parts of the installation demonstrate the analogue, handmade and performative qualities of Henderson’s work, and the dialogue she creates between media.
Seasons End was produced and designed with Aude Levere and Jake Tilbury
Tate Modern