Miss Olga, to you and I
About
Miss Olga, to you and I is a live performance by Exodus Crooks. Exodus first responded to the drawings of the European circus performer Miss La La by Edgar Degas in 2021, found in The Barber Institute of Fine Arts, Birmingham. Since then, Exodus has continued to research and explore Miss La La. This live performance taking place in the Gallery explores themes of Afropean ancestry, strength, and spectatorship in relation to Blackness. The work considers the history and visibility of Miss La La, whilst referring to the artist’s own matriarchal affairs.
This performance responds to our current our exhibition 'Discover Degas and Miss La La'.
Exodus Crooks
Exodus Crooks is a British-Jamaican multidisciplinary artist, educator, and writer whose practice centres on the relationship with self. Observing the results of fractious domesticity and longing, their art tends to appear as questions of self-actualization and the role that religion and spirituality play in that journey to enlightenment. With themes of care, tenderness, and reimagination at the core of their practice, Exodus uses gardening, text, filmmaking, and installation to further explore indigenous thought.
Exodus’ visual and performance art has been exhibited at Ikon Gallery, Birmingham, the International Curators Forum, Freelands Foundation, The New Art Gallery Walsall, iniva, and the Film and Video Umbrella. Exodus now works as both as a visiting lecturer and mentor at various arts education organisations across England alongside their arts practice.
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Friday Lates: Exodus Crooks
Miss Olga, to you and I
Free
Although this event does not require booking, we encourage you to book a free Gallery entry ticket to gain admission to the National Gallery and save time on arrival.
Please note, Gallery entry does not guarantee admission to this event. Places are available on a first come, first served basis.