millie-massey profile photo

I am a Multi-media Artist. As a dedicated runner fascinated by the mental and physical aspects of sports, my practice explores the intriguing similarities between running and artistic expression.

Final Project

04:05:08

My project, ’04:05:08′, is an installation based on marathon training. The use of sound and bright colours creates an immersive experience for viewers and reflects the rigorous training journey. The installation features dynamic visuals and rhythmic soundscapes mimicking footsteps and heartbeats. The space is designed to evoke the physical and mental endurance required for marathon training, capturing the essence of perseverance, determination, and the transformative power of pushing human limits. Through multimedia elements, the artwork conveys the repetitive nature of a marathon experience, alongside celebrating the resilience and dedication of marathon runners.



The Thought Process

Using a vinyl cutter, I created individual digits and characters to convey the training experience. The meticulous process of weeding the text reflects the calculated and detailed nature of the training.

The colours and size of the installation are designed to create an overwhelming, yet vibrant and exciting experience. The combination of lemon yellow layered over matte blue is deliberately selected to create optical illusions and visual discomfort, challenging and unsettling your perception. The idea behind this is that the outline of the digits linger in your vision when you look away from the installation, symbolising how marathon training permeates all aspects of your life.

The auditory component within the installation enables the observer to fully immerse themselves in the experience of running. Wearing headphones adds a personal touch, placing the observer directly in the shoes of the runner.


Journey to the Show

To achieve the desired outcome for the exhibition, I experimented with various colours, mediums, techniques and compositions to refine the effect I aimed to convey.

Initially, my practice consisted of several smaller, individual pieces. While this approach achieved some results, it fell short of the impactful presence I envisioned for the exhibition.

Below are a few examples of the earlier pieces in the project.