12/12/2008
The Watch Man by Shona Illingworth use Hi-Shine

Harlequin Hi-Shine features in a major multi-media installation exploring trauma memory by artist Shona Illingworth, shown as part of ‘War and Medicine’, this year’s major temporary exhibition at Wellcome Collection.

Using video and sound, The Watch Man explores the conflict between trauma memory and the need for a coherent ‘life story’ through the experience of an 80 year old watchmaker, who as a 19 year old experienced one of the most deeply affecting and shocking events of the Second World War.

The Watch Man includes a large circular projection screen suspended above the red Harlequin Hi-Shine floor. A complex sound composition surrounds the visitor, with audio high above their heads, and resonating through a charged and reflective surface of the constructed floor beneath their feet.

Shona Illingworth’s work has been made in collaboration with University of Leeds neuro-psychologist Professor Martin A. Conway, an internationally recognised expert on trauma memory, confabulation and the role of memory in the formation of a sense of self.

Harlequin Hi-Shine rolls out instantly to a breathtaking wet-look finish thanks to a special laminated hard polymer ultra-gloss surface, which is superior to urethane for scratch-resistance.

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Note for editors

The Watch Man’ has been supported by the Arts Council England. It uses FeONIC audio technology and red Hi-Shine flooring was provided by Harlequin.