In the heart of Runegraf’s space, tattoo artist Scumofthestars performed live tattooing, surrounded by the sharp energy of the knives and symbols in the room. Positioned as an integral part of the installation, Scumofthestars offered visitors the opportunity to receive tattoos inspired by the themes of The Coven, transforming the act of tattooing into a personal act of connection with the exhibition’s dark energy. As the tattoo machine buzzed, it blended with the intensity of the gallery, turning the room into a space where art, body, and magic converge. These tattoos, designed with occult symbols and sigils, became lasting marks that tied visitors to the night’s themes of resistance, power, and ancient forces.
Thanks to Kieron Coffey’s curating programme, tattoo performers will rotate throughout the exhibition, each bringing their unique interpretation of the exhibition’s themes. This dynamic approach allows for different energies to flow through the space each day, with the tattooing process continuing to be a part of the experience, allowing visitors to engage with the exhibition in a deeply personal way.
Later in the evening, Samuel Suffer performed with haunting intensity, wearing a helmet that concealed his face. He played guitar with a raw, ritualistic energy that resonated throughout the gallery. Between his searing riffs, Suffer recited his lyrics like incantations, his voice heavy with meaning, as though speaking words that carried the weight of centuries of fear and resistance. His performance was a fitting culmination of the exhibition’s themes, encapsulating the terror of persecution and the unyielding defiance of those who fought to survive.
Since its opening in March 2024, Metamorphika has quickly become a key venue for experimental art in Hackney. The Coven, on view by appointment until November 17, 2024, offers an experience that challenges and captivates. The exhibition immerses its audience in a world of ancient power and darkness, where the spirit of resistance pulses through both art and action, leaving an indelible mark on all who enter.