Focal Point Gallery is delighted to host Cealdwiellla, an intensive research project and expedition into the futures and pasts of the ancient Running Well in Runwell, Essex, by New Noveta – Ellen Freed and Keira Fox – in collaboration with Sophie Sleigh-Johnson. Presented as part of the Radical ESSEX programme, the work is a new iteration on Essex soil of the original that took place last April at Arcadia Missa, London.

The live invocation, which is the result of numerous recordings of and pilgrimages to the well and divinations of its essence, features an original soundtrack and room mix by Vindicatrix aka musician David Aird; costumes by Gabriella Massey of the fashion house Atelier Bâba; and a live radio transmission from the Running Well itself into the gallery. The performance centers around a well, a water-filled steel structure in the room, the design of which reflects the arcane cross symbol of the Prioress, the head of a religious house of women that resided at the mystery site in the twelfth century.

Sleigh-Johnson enacts the role of the channeller, the well guardian, decoding the well’s signal with the prioress’ staff as attuner, whilst New Noveta embody the well’s spirit, using live vocalisation and props that reflect the well’s history of healing and regeneration. A new iteration of coordinates is re-written over the revived site, refolding into the dust of the earth.

c2c have kindly provided half price return train tickets for travel between London Fenchurch Street and Southend Central for this event. Book your train ticket here. 

This event is free and all are welcome. Focal Point Gallery is mobility accessible. If you have any specific access requirements please do not hesitate to contact the gallery to discuss how we can meet your needs.