Abstract

The second phase of Dutton and Swindells collaborative The Institute of Beasts project consisted of an installation/exhibition and a book-work.

The large (7 adjoining gallery spaces) installation/exhibition at Project Space Leeds was open to the public for 12 weeks (from 20 January, 2011) and included a six-week open residency period during which time the artists were present.

The exhibition continued to explore themes of ‘animality’ – previously developed in The Institute of Beasts – but this time in a more expansive physical environment using large-scale neon and sound. The Stag and Hound focused more on disturbing taxonomies by providing an elaborate ‘forest’ of signs, approaches, methods and materials, deliberately tripping up linear narratives and interpretations.

The exhibition was open to the public for 12 weeks, including a six week open residency period during which time one or both artists, Dutton and Swindells, were present. During the exhibition the artists launched their book ‘The Institute of Beasts’, published by Site Gallery and distributed by Cornerhouse books ISBN 978 1 899926 13 5