London, 2006
An 18m long scratch-off surface invites passers-by to discover Mark-Anthony Turnage’s piece, Hidden Love Song. The song was recorded in collaboration with children's groups which also collected stories about love, both written and recorded interviews.
As people scratch away the silver layer, they discover the composer’s world and inspiration, through a visual collage of drawings and messages – and activate the written words and sound excerpts of the project. Through time, the installation evolves. People leave their new marks, write their own messages, and thus inspire others. Hidden Love Song took place on the construction barriers of London’s Royal Festival Hall while it was closed for refurbishment. The installation allowed the institution to bring back life within its site and maintain a dialogue with the public.
Created by Arlete Castelo and Melissa Mongiat
Produced with the Royal Festival Hall and Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design
