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The road to Britain's piers

Angela Kelly
22/10/2008

THE north west of England is linked with south-west China in a fascinating new video installation at Chinese Arts Centre.

Interval II by Suki Chan investigates the relationship between light, architecture and memory, juxtaposing a Victorian cast-iron pier and a rammed earth Hakka roundhouse.

This sensitive investigation into the built environment is inspired by the seasonal migration of birds, recalling Chan’s own childhood memory of moving to the UK from Hong Kong aged six which left her feeling like a guest in her native country.

The film explores her connection to this distant birthplace as well as her relationship with her current, British home.

The work uses light, moving image, electronics and sound to create a sensual experience which invites the viewer to meditate on their relationship with a larger environment.

The cast-iron pier is an icon of industrialisation. Boldly stretching over the sea towards the horizon, the structure brings us closer to nature as well as being a site of cultural activity. Today, many piers are falling into disrepair and a new community has taken refuge – thousands of starlings returning to roost mark their arrival at the end of each day with mesmerising, swarming formations.

The roundhouses, designed and built to protect inhabitants from the elements, were historically home to the migrant community of Hakkas, otherwise known as ‘guest people’.

The round fortress-like form results from blending Hakka culture, local building materials and techniques. The shape maximises interior space while ensuring an equal split between the occupants, usually several generations of a large, extended family.

As China modernises, many younger people are leaving these dwellings to the city in search of opportunities, making Chan’s work particularly poignant.

Interval II runs until Monday, December 22 at Chinese Arts Centre, Thomas Street, Manchester. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday and 11am to 4pm on Sundays.