Discord by Caitlin Shepherd

In 2015 I was commissioned to make a new artwork for Somerset House as part of the year- long Utopia Season. Working in collaboration with project partners, James Wood, Sound and Music, Kings Cultural Institute, Typesun and Tabitha Pope. The project was part of my PhD practice and research, and is funded by the Arts Council and Kings Cultural Institute.

The installation took the form of a dystopian property viewing, half installation and half sound experience, for three people at a time. Audiences booked their viewing in advance and had to find their way through a dark corridor to unlock three properties, and decide which house, and lifestyle they wanted for themselves. Making their way through the corridor of oppression, audiences were exposed to angry voices describing the problems with the current housing market.

A Red door that remained mysteriously locked for the duration of the experience, mysteriously became unlocked at the end of their viewing, and audiences were directed into the auction room. From there, individual property choice, and their role in pursuing a more equal society was in their hands.