Soft Wax: Sun Ra -- Space is the Place

This FREE multi-media extravaganza was originally conceived as part of The London Jazz Festival, last November. It was particularly inspired by the visionary 20th Century musician Sun Ra. He claimed to have come to us from Saturn and had an enveloping interest in outer space. Ancient non-western civilizations, such as those of Egypt, Ethiopia and India were also an abiding concern of his. This is reflected in some of the Sun Ra tracks to be heard on the 5th, notably “India” and “Aethiopia”; his Arkestra also toured Egypt and played at the pyramids. There will be an improvised selection, inspired by the Arkestra throughout this show.
As Soft Wax developed this project others were drawn in, notably practicing artist Will Cenci, whose work is part of this interactive installation. Also the project became extended by consideration of the diverse factors that contribute to individual’s own perceptions of long-form time sequences and intergalactic space. Will and Wax have both made new work for this edition. We also expect very special guests.
For most people these themes are likely to be derived wholly or largely through popular culture. For Soft Wax early episodes of Dr Who had a particular impact in that respect. In 20th Century India the mythological history of the place was absorbed through the vehicle of popular Hindu comics. The fascination that ancient Egyptian culture can exert over people is almost legendary in itself. Given the circumstances of the original conception of this show it was only expected to be up for one day. The nature of Soft Wax’s pieces reflects that, they’re all transitory…take one away with you.