For more than a decade Noko have been exploring the links between projected images, experimental music and magic. Comprised of the fine artist Barry William Hale, sonic artist Scott Barnes and video artist Michael Strumm, Noko work in the tradition of magical filmmakers such as Harry Smith and Derek Jarmen, and avant-garde musical groups such as Coil and Clock DVA. Live performances by Noko are rare special events which visually draw on remixing real-time image capture, found footage, visual manipulation and digital animation, while the sound design creates an endlessly shifting sonic palette.
Equally at home working with images from folk traditions and digital art, Noko are a prime example of the best in contemporary hybrid creative practice. Since 2010 the group have performed at the Sydney Biennale, Adelaide Fringe Festival, Equinox Festival London and Esoteric Book Fair Seattle, Noko now premiere their work for Perth audiences.
Drawing on the language of the angels that informed the esoteric background to John Dee’s magical practice for Queen Elizabeth I, this work sees Noko use this language as the basis for a series of multi-media performances. Barry Hale’s art is also exhibited at Buratti Fine Art, 222 Queen Victoria St, North Fremantle, as part of Windows to the Sacred, opening13th July.