Brow of a God/Jaw of a Devil: Unsettling the Source of the Nile

An exhibition of new images by Himali Singh Soin with historian of science Alexis Rider, inspired by the collection of Sir Richard Burton.

Burton’s search for the source of the Nile is considered the epitome of nineteenth century Imperial exploration. However, the expedition is steeped in colonial notions of place and otherness. It is also the story of an environment that steadfastly resists being known. Alexis and Himali will interrogate Burton’s search for the Nile. They will bring the river and its landscape, both real and imagined, to the foreground.

The exhibition presents a series of photographs that contain ghosts and shadows of the Burton collection. The images can be viewed alongside an accompanying text drawn from many sources, which offers an interpretive starting point for the images. Visitors are invited to explore archives, contested histories, and the nature of human and more-than-human relationships.

Like the Nile, the exhibition will be fluid, malleable, and redirectable by the visitor. With each adjustment, narratives will shift.

A special late night opening on Friday 19 November will feature a performance by violinist Blaize Henry. Beyond the River is a semi-improvisational work that explores the beauty, complexity and mystery of water, our human connection to it, and the power it wields as the source of life on earth. The event is free but pre-booking through our website is required.