2024 Artist in Residence Katrina Palmer returns for a live reading accompanied by a synthesised sound performance, taking place in the atmospheric surroundings of the Gallery in the dark, after hours.

Join us to hear readings based on the text of her book 'The Touch Report' written during her residency, performed by the Dark Readings Group. Named after the National Gallery’s record of incidents in which works of art are touched while on public display, Palmer’s experimental writing explores the fragile material conditions and perceived power of historical paintings, while explicitly addressing their violent imagery.

Palmer convened the Dark Readings Group with her peers, to explore darkness and alternative sensory forms of knowing. Alongside Palmer, readers and performers include the artists and poets David Burrows, Sabrina Hasan, Bhanu Kapil, dove / Christine Kirubi and Emma McNally.

Please note that this performance lasts approximately 45 minutes and takes place in complete darkness. Further instructions for the event will be shared with attendees. To discuss any additional access requirements, please email: education@nationalgallery.org.uk.