Night Walk for Edinburgh
The image of the street comes up on the iPod screen. It appears that it has been shot in the exact location that you are standing in, almost as if it is in real time. A figure walks past on the video as another passes by in the real world, the two realities aligning. The sounds from the headphones are startlingly three- dimensional, further merging the two worlds in front of you. A female voice close behind you says: ‘I think we should get started. Walk with me…’
Canadian artists Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller returned to Edinburgh to make one of the mesmerising video walks for which they are acclaimed throughout the world. Following Cardiff’s voice and walking in her footsteps, you will be led through the backstreets of the Old Town, unravelling a disjointed tale – part game-playing, part surrealistic poetry, perhaps even a murder mystery – layered with history, invention and memories.
This work has was commissioned by the Fruitmarket and is now part of the Gallery’s permanent collection and will be restaged regularly. Acquired by the Fruitmarket with Art Fund support.
It was first presented in partnership with Edinburgh International Festival and in association with Edinburgh Art Festival from 25 July – 25 August 2019.
Supported by The Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller Commission Circle Royal Mile: Dasha Shenkman OBE, Nick Thomas Old Assembly: Melanie Reid Advocates: Sophie Crichton Stuart, Fiona and Kenny Cumming, Sarah and Gerard Griffin, Catherine Muirden and Werner Keschner, William Zachs and Martin Adam