Outfall

Outfall is a research project commissioned by TACO! exploring flows of waste, production and biological matter within London and the Thames Estuary. Natasha Bird presents a response to Crossness as a sculptural reading display. Through archival research, sculptural and audio experiments, the project explores the city as both body and ecosystem. Natasha and Crossness will also present a hands-on family activity.

Outfall takes place at the Crossness Open Day 
Sunday, 13 June, 10.30-16.00

Book tickets here 
Tickets must be booked in advance – Adults £10, Children 5-15 yrs £3, under 5s FREE.

Natasha also presents a radio broadcast commissioned by TACO! on RTM.fm on 29 May, as part of their Estuary Festival artist broadcast series. Move that stagnant pool along! Is an experimental hour of field recordings, conversations, and archival audio exploring points of flow and stagnation in the landscape around the outlet of the Southern Outfall Sewer.

About the artist
Natasha Bird is an artist based in London who makes sculptural objects that speak about industrial and bodily functions. Current work is concerned with aspects of city water infrastructures, ideas of flow and stagnation and their potential for production; and how these relate to the experience of being a body inside a system. She is currently undertaking a research residency at Crossness Pumping Station in South East London, supported by TACO!

Thamesmead Arts and Culture Office (TACO!) is an artist-led space for research, production, and exchange located in Thamesmead, SE London. TACO! is engaged with its local context whilst simultaneously supporting dialogue with artists and contemporary art.

Completed in 1865, Crossness Pumping Station is a magnificent Grade 1 Listed industrial heritage site and unique visitor attraction. It was built by Sir Joseph Bazalgette as part of the first, city-wide sewage system for Victorian London and harnessed the power of the tidal Thames to transport waste along the estuary and out to sea.

Photos: Natasha Bird