Utrophian
Ben is a key member of Utrophia Arts Network. In December 2002 he acquired the keys to
Utrophia's first project space, which then grew into a creative hub for many artists over a five year duration. In August 2007, along side Sakura Tanaka he co-found Utrophia's first public establishment Deptford properly.
Ben is the founder of the worlds two most popular flash mobs,
Mobile-clubbing and
Pillow Fight Club. He has produced many events including Utrophia's annual
CWM festival and The University of Brighton's annual
Dot to Dot events. Currently Ben is working on a project called
Seedsprout,
a web
based content management system designed to support, assist and
establish communities that collectively wish to produce specific
events.
Singularly and collaboratively Ben has produced performances and installations that utilise light. These projects often entail working closely with musicians,
composers, choirs or choreographers. Ben has recently constructed a purpose built projection lab at Utrophia's Ice Cream Factory where he plans to present numerous sound and light performances.
Since 2005, Ben has produced a number of audio walks around London and Brighton. His walks adopt a diverse range of approaches and he continues to explore this barely touched medium within his
workshops.
A majority of Ben's live works sway towards a
performative approach as opposed to a 'performance'. His pieces utilise
a variety of platforms, most are within the public arena. These pieces
have been documented and some have become short films in their own
right.
Music
Currently Ben is drummer, dancer & trickster of the mighty duo
Ginger & Sorrel as well as 'Sprouts' on snare in
The 'legendary'
Marching Band. See related projects below for previous music projects.
Over the last 8 years Ben has produced a series of workshops and lectures based around integrated arts. He regularly lectures at The University of Brighton on the Performance and visual art courses, which focuses on Music, Dance and theatre and their integration with visual art.
Contact: ben@utrophia.net