SIMPARCH
drum n basin

19th October 2007 - 20th April 2008


US -based collective SIMPARCH realised a major new architectural installation in The Coach Shed at Greenland Street as part of A Foundation’s autumn programme. SIMPARCH’s practice operates between the borders of architecture, design and popular culture and often results in the creation of large-scale works that take into account the specificities and histories of a given site.

Free Basin consists of a large elevated kidney shaped facsimile of a domestic West Coast swimming pool. Constructed meticulously from wood, this exquisitely crafted object occupied the industrial proportions of The Coach Shed. Alongside the basin, SIMPARCH installed a 40ft full pipe. Made using a similar construction method with a complex layering of multiple wooden spines and ribs, the full pipe's impressive structure echoes a hull in dry dock.

SIMPARCH extended an open invitation to skate the architecture of the installation. The basin allowed for complex carves, grinds and airs, while the pipe provided skaters with the opportunity to perform dynamic turns and dives, all of which will combined to create a unique spectacle and rhythmic soundtrack within the space.

SIMPARCH’s initial desire to build a basin directly refers to the history of pool skating which is well documented in the US and was initially born out of an economic recession, which saw the abandonment of many houses and pools that were subsequently colonised by skaters who made use of the unique challenges that this particular architectural form offered. The decision to re-interpret this piece for A Foundation was made in response to Liverpool’s well documented skating history and the current transformation of the City’s landscape with one of the largest regeneration schemes in Europe. This will result in the outlawing of skateboarding and a decline of street culture.

SIMPARCH have exhibited throughout the US and in Europe. Exhibitions include solo projects for Tate Modern and InSITE, San Diego and inclusion in Documenta XI, 2002 and the Whitney Biennial, 2004.

Skaters were invited to skate drum n' basin during gallery hours. Please note that anyone wishing to skate will have to sign a waiver. Under 16s need to bring someone who is over 18 with them. Anyone who is under 18 will need to have the waiver signed by a parent or guardian. Forms are available at the gallery or you can download the Terms and Conditions and Consent Form here.


For further information about SIMPARCH visit www.simparch.org

SIMPARCH
drum n basin , 2007
Image by Andy Stagg

SIMPARCH
drum n basin , 2007
Image by Rob Meighen

SIMPARCH
drum n basin , 2007
Image by Rob Meighen

SIMPARCH
drum n basin , 2007
Image by Rob Meighen