From: Brian Griffiths
Date: 02/01/2026 12:45
To: Judith Dean, Gina Fischli, Nicola Gunnarsson, Sebastian Jefford,
Sarah Jones, Richard Kirwan, Hamish Pearch, Cathie Pilkington,
Max Prus, Elinor Stanley, Oliver Tirré, Chris Thompson,
David Thorpe, Francis Upritchard, Robert Walser
Dear artists,
I have a request, I need an idea from you, a sort of sketch, an outline to follow, something you could perhaps take part in, a show, an appearance, a modest involvement.
You are required to arrive with something.
What matters is that you come equipped with a certain willingness to comply while quietly doing something else entirely.
It would be helpful if you could bring with you several versions, not too many, perhaps two or three, including one you rarely use.
It should be something that you appear to believe in. Elegance will improve it. So will hesitation.
Please do not attempt to express anything too clearly. Some badly timed action will do more work than conviction.
It should, and this is not compulsory, more advisable, misbehave slightly. Nothing offensive, merely something that causes a brief confusion among viewers who are otherwise wellmeaning and respectably occupied. This confusion will count as participation.
Loud and short or quiet and long could work.
Hair or snakes are optional, though gestures are essential. If you have a coat, any coat, it may be worn or carried or simply remembered.
Physical preparation is not required but could help.
If you have ever loved, or been angry, or been unable to speak when speech was expected, this could be consulted but not demonstrated.
The gallery will do its part. Light will come from somewhere. People will stand and look. This is ideal.
Should matters escalate please remain calm. Eventually the exhibition will end.
Best
Brian Griffiths
