From Breath traces the ephemeral forces of breath, movement and time. The work unfolds as I play a giant silver flute while drawing it across a black canvas on the floor. The flute has only a single embouchure hole and no mechanisms, so sound and intonation are produced through breath alone. As I exhale and drags the flute, a silver trace is left on the canvas. Each mark records the duration and intensity of a breath, as well as the weight and movement of the body. The flute is slowly worn away, its tip subtly rounded and softened as the work progresses. What remains are three interwoven records: a large-scale silverpoint drawing, a sound recording, and the flute.

STILL IMAGES: Installation and performance views of Emma Fielden 'From breath' 2024 as part of the exhibition 'Infinite: Dobell Australian Drawing Biennial 2024' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales © the artist, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Diana Panuccio.

VIDEO: Performance at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 21 September 2024. Video and additional sound design by Tom Compagnoni.