Hanne Lippard performs SYZYGY at Bergamo church

Norwegian artist Hanne Lippard will present a new performance titled SYZYGY on December 16, 2018, at the Chiesa San Giovanni XXIII in Bergamo, Italy. The event is organized by The Blank and curated by Claudia Santeroni, as a gift from the city's hospital to the community during Advent. Lippard, based in Berlin and recently nominated for the Nam June Paik Award, uses her voice and stage presence to recite a text she wrote specifically for the church. The church itself features works by Andrea Mastrovito (altar) and Stefano Arienti (walls). In an interview, Lippard explains that SYZYGY refers to a natural astronomical alignment, metaphorically representing the connection of disparate elements through her voice. She finds performing in churches interesting because the architecture naturally amplifies the voice without technology. Lippard prepares for performances by seeking silence and solitude beforehand, and often feels exhausted afterward, comparing herself to the Oracle of Delphi. She recalls an unusual performance with her cat Bob, who hid from the audience. Upcoming projects include a residency at the Goethe Institute in Minneapolis in March, where she will explore themes of economy, language, and urban noise. The performance is free and open to the public.