There's a particular magic in discovering the worlds created by the late prescient author Ursula K. Le Guin, from the Earthsea archipelago to the planet of Gethen. The former series was one of the first I encountered as a young reader that centered non-White characters. Even her carefully drawn maps reveal a mind with gears always turning, swirling with storylines that defied linearity and conventions of science fiction - and the way writers speak to their readers.
Walking along the quayside and crossing the Gateshead Millennium Bridge, they pointed out landmarks to Phoebe as they went: the Tyne Bridge, the Glasshouse International Centre for Music. They arrived, eventually, at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, where Harold Offeh's exhibition The Mothership Collective 2.0 was showing (it's on until 18 January). The show is described as a sci-fi playscape for collaborative encounters and made up of different zones.
Experience Best of Odinani, a one-night immersive performance with multidisciplinary artist Ashley Alizor. The show fuses original electronic music, sultry burlesque, and interactive art installations to create a playful, empowering, and unforgettable evening. Celebrate creativity, community, and live performance in a unique, sensory-rich event designed to captivate audiences of all kinds.
Bourdon Street Chippy replicates a traditional British fish and chips shop, yet everything is crafted from felt, including the food and decor, creating a unique visual experience.
The Whispering Mountains is a site-specific installation featuring illuminated, mountain-like sculptures inspired by the majestic peaks surrounding Queenstown, aiming to reflect their powerful presence.
Found in galleries, public spaces, and installations, this form of art responds to gestures and behaviour, turning spectators into co-creators.