FKA Twigs: A Journey of Healing and Expression Through Art
FKA Twigs, the multifaceted artist known for her ethereal music and captivating performances, has embarked on a transformative journey that culminates in her latest work—a live performance piece titled The Eleven at Sotheby’s. This exhibition marks a significant milestone in Twigs’s career, coinciding with the release of her third album, Eusexua. At 36 years old, Twigs reflects on her evolution as an artist and individual, emphasizing the healing power of creativity and self-expression.
A Healing Journey
In a recent interview, Twigs described her latest work as part of a "huge and healing journey" over the past few years. She has learned to reconnect with her body and embrace her identity as an artist. The live performance piece, The Eleven, is described as "a physical and artistic quest for self-healing," featuring a rotating group of 11 "movers" who engage in ritualized motions designed to address various aspects of modern life. Each motion lasts 11 minutes and tackles issues such as technology addiction, self-awareness, and the simplification of life.
Twigs’s choreography aims to create a sense of calm and control, allowing participants to focus on the beauty and wildness of life without being overwhelmed by external noise. This approach reflects her desire to foster a deeper connection with oneself and to encourage others to explore their own healing journeys.
The Concept Behind The Eleven
The concept of The Eleven is both innovative and introspective. Each ritual addresses contemporary challenges, such as the pervasive influence of technology on our lives. For instance, one ritual might prompt participants to acknowledge their urge to check social media instead of being present in the moment. Twigs encourages individuals to take time for self-reflection, asking questions about their emotional responses to everyday situations.
Twigs’s background in opera and ballet informs her choreography, blending movement with emotional expression. She participates in some performances while also inviting a revolving cast of "special guests," making each experience unique and dynamic.
A First for Sotheby’s
Not only is The Eleven a groundbreaking project for Twigs, but it also marks a historic moment for Sotheby’s, as it is the first live performance art piece in the gallery’s 280-year history. This collaboration highlights the intersection of contemporary art and performance, showcasing Twigs’s innovative approach to self-expression.
Inspirations and Influences
Twigs draws inspiration from powerful women who have shaped her artistic vision. She cites icons such as Madonna, Tracey Emin, and Marina Abramovic as muses who have encouraged her to persevere and share her message with the world. Twigs admires these women for their ability to create something larger than themselves and for their resilience in the face of adversity.
Her own life experiences serve as rich material for her art. Twigs reflects on her past, stating that she could create multiple albums based on her life from ages 16 to 18 alone. This introspection informs her creative process, allowing her to channel her emotions into her work.
A Unique Aesthetic
In preparation for Eusexua, Twigs developed a distinct aesthetic, wearing a specific shade of blue throughout the album’s creation. Collaborating with Yaz XL, she designed a "modular wardrobe" to alleviate the stress of appearance, allowing her to focus on her artistic expression. This attention to detail extends to the exhibition, which features intimate photographs and Polaroids taken by her partner, photographer Jordan Hemingway.
Addressing Domestic Violence
Twigs’s journey has not been without challenges. She has been open about her experiences with domestic abuse, having filed a lawsuit against her former partner, Shia LaBeouf, for alleged physical and emotional abuse. As an ambassador for Sistah Space, a charity supporting African and Caribbean heritage women affected by domestic violence, Twigs emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue. She believes that domestic violence is often misunderstood, particularly within different cultural contexts.
The Release of Eusexua
The exhibition coincides with the release of Twigs’s new album, Eusexua, a term she coined to describe that enlightening moment when everything clicks into place. This album, along with her upcoming film role in the reboot of The Crow, signifies an exciting chapter in her career. Twigs expresses gratitude for the opportunities to share her work, emphasizing her passion for the arts and her commitment to self-expression.
Conclusion
FKA Twigs’s The Eleven at Sotheby’s is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of healing, self-discovery, and the power of art to transform lives. Through her innovative choreography and personal narrative, Twigs invites audiences to reflect on their own journeys and embrace the beauty of vulnerability. As she continues to push boundaries in music and performance, Twigs remains a beacon of inspiration for those navigating their own paths of healing and self-expression. The exhibition runs from September 14 to September 26, offering a unique opportunity to experience Twigs’s artistic vision firsthand.