CRUX

A new video installation by Simon Fildes and Katrina McPherson

4 boulders , 4 climbers, 4 geologies, 4 choreographies.

Effort, dynamic, balance and style weave together in a physical exploration of the failure and success of 4 solo climbers. Each one tackles a challenging route on freestanding boulders across 4 highland locations,

The aesthetic potential of the climbers’ performances is drawn into focus by the camera’s framing. The editing creates an involving and evolving 4 way video counterpoint that echoes the communality of the bouldering culture.

Displayed alongside is specially commissioned Laban notation of the duets between human and rock. More usually deployed to notate dance, these scores further emphasis the performative nature of the climbers’ sport.


Climbers

Steve Hammond on Outstanding and The Dude (6a+ /7a) at Ruthven boulder Stac Gorm, Loch Ruthven
Dave Wheeler on Mousehole and South Wall Traverse (6a+/6c+) at Tomriach boulder, Strathnairn
Steve Bate on Squelch (6c) at The Ship boulder Torridon
Steve Johnstone on Right Lip (6c) at The Link boulder An- t-aonach, Cairngorm

Crew

Katrina McPherson camera
Simon Fildes editing
Gayle Meikle Sound Boom
Rosalind Masson Camera Assistant
Hannah Oliver Runner
Jeanette Ginslov Runner


Laban Notation

Gwen Goodman

Special Thanks

Dave Wheeler and John Watson for advice and inspiration

Funding and support

Hannah McClure Centre Abertay University
DJCAD University of Dundee
Goat Media Ltd
Hi-Arts
South East Dance
Highlands and Islands Film Commission
National Trust for Scotland
RSPB
Cairngorm Mountain
Dalcross Estate

Shot on location in the Highlands of Scotland UK May 2009