CCA Derry~Londonderry is pleased to announce the upcoming solo exhibition of artist Michael Hanna’s long-term project, Crossing the Park. The exhibition will launch on Saturday, October 5, 2024 and will run until Saturday, December 21, 2024.
Crossing the Park is a project that follows Michael Hanna’s attempt to change his allegiance from Everton Football Club to their arch-rivals, Liverpool. This process, which has been ongoing for the past three years, explores the concept of loyalty, tribalism, empathy, and identity, as well as delving into the psychology of group behavior.
The title of the exhibition, “Crossing the Park,” is derived from a derogatory term used to describe players who have played for both Everton and Liverpool Football Clubs. The two teams’ home grounds are separated by Stanley Park, and switching teams is often seen as a controversial move.
The project began with a series of rituals and superstitions that helped Michael in his attempt to develop a love for Liverpool. These early works were featured in the URGENCIES exhibition at CCA in 2021 and included using red body paint when Liverpool played, dressing his newborn child in Liverpool kit, and adopting the same match-day meal ritual as goalkeeper Pepe Reina.
Over the years, the project has evolved, and the exhibition will include filmed conversations with the artist. These conversations will cover topics such as group behavior and how to change, as well as discussions with Liverpool taxi drivers on the importance of friends, family, and football fandom. The exhibition will also feature a text outlining seven activities based on social psychological theory and research, designed to promote affinity with Liverpool Football Club and reduce affinity with Everton. These activities were developed by Professor Rhiannon Turner from Queen’s University Belfast and have informed the actions and works in the rest of the exhibition as Michael continues his pursuit of becoming a Liverpool Football Club supporter.
Crossing the Park is commissioned by CCA Derry~Londonderry, Centre Culturel Irlandais, and F.E. McWilliam Gallery, and is supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland’s Commissioning Programme, Derry City & Strabane District Council, An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Temple Bar Gallery + Studios, and the Elephant Trust.
For more information on Crossing the Park and other exhibitions at CCA Derry~Londonderry, please visit their website at www.cca-derry-londonderry.org.
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