Sleeping Methodologies is a new commission by Dan Lie that explores how crisis and fatigue can become catalysts  for transformation, marking a new chapter in the artist’s practice. Departing from a well-established methodology of producing monumental installations, the exhibition is premised on the humble gesture of creating an atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down, rest and reflect. You are encouraged to notice what sensations, memories and feelings surface as you move through the gallery.

While still informed by Lie’s ongoing research into mortality and renewal, non-human ecologies and ritualistic ontologies, Sleeping Methodologies begins from a deeply personal place: the artist’s grief and fatigue, and their admitted need for a clean slate. From a state of exhaustion and burnout, Lie has created a total environment bathed in
yellow light and populated with objects and ‘other-than-human’ companions that invite both body and mind to pause, drift, feel, observe, engage and disengage. It is an anti-monumental provocation to take a step back and consider: What would happen if I stopped?

The exhibition is shaped by research in Bristol and beyond, including visits to archaeological sites such as Stonehenge, engagement with Spike Island’s creative communities, and a series of public dialogues titled Honest Grieving for a Better Life, which took place at Spike Island in May.

Produced onsite with natural materials that will be repurposed or returned to the earth after the exhibition, the installation is made of chairs wrapped in cotton dyed
with tea and coffee, large stones keeping watch over mattresses filled with hay and lavender, and a garland of popcorn that traverses the gallery.

Partners and Supporters

The exhibition is produced with generous support by the Henry Moore Foundation.

The exhibition is supported by the Henry Moore Foundation. Key elements of the exhibition were produced with members of Spike Island’s Visitor Services and Technical teams, students from the University of the West of England’s Fine Art courses, and Proud to be, Creative Youth Network’s LGBTQ+ group.