“A Morris Dancer Should Never Appear to Touch the Ground” is a billboard image that arises from instructions given as to what a morris dancer should be contemplating when learning to dance. Morris dancing is traditional dance form that is native to England, and is over 500 years old. It has never been more popular than it is today.

Matthew Cowan’s practice is in the realm of British folk traditions. Originally from New Zealand, his work is inspired by the rich folk traditions of Britain, and the inherent strangeness of their continued popularity in a modern world.

He is currently working on a video project for the English Folk Dance and Song Society, and will be showing new works at Waygood’s Hanging Wall, Harker’s Building during July.

www.matthewcowan.net

photo credit: William Struthers

• Link to full programme.
• Link to Harker Herald introduction.
• Link to Byker Mummers.
• Link to video clip