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KArtsCon2023: Nadia Perrotta – Murphy’s Adventures Book 1: It’s OK to Feel Lost

Nadia Perrotta is a visionary visual artist renowned for her socially engaged practice, encompassing illustration, moving image, performance, and creative writing. With an extensive exhibition history both nationally and internationally, Nadia’s work has been showcased in prestigious venues such as Turner Contemporary in Margate, INIVA in London, Arnolfini Gallery in Bristol, and Atelier Melusine in France. She has also participated in significant events like the AIAPI-UNESCO Human Rights? #EDU exhibition and the Whitstable Biennale Satellite.

Beyond her artistic endeavours, Nadia has a deep commitment to working collaboratively with communities. She has successfully undertaken commissions in the public realm, partnering closely with local authorities in North Kent and Medway. Her passion for fostering connections and empowering young people led her to manage the acclaimed House Of Stars at Sun Pier House. Serving as a safe hub for creativity and expression, this Art Awards registered centre facilitates collaboration, supports artistic exploration, and provides a platform for young people and creatives to connect and grow. Notably, House of Stars initiated the very first Manga Club, celebrating Medway’s historical connection with Japan through anime culture, and is a proud partner of the Medway River Lit Festival.

Nadia’s artistic practice extends beyond traditional exhibitions and commissions. She has an impressive filmography, featuring works such as “Un Paese Innocente,” “A Totally Normal Saturday in Dartford,” and “Fuscaldo,” a documentary produced in collaboration with a community of fishermen in southern Italy. Through her diverse body of work, Nadia explores the intricate relationship between landscapes, communities, and personal experiences. Her works often blend fiction and reality, utilizing poetic and metaphorical language to address social and political issues. With a focus on memory, identity, and the dynamics of landscapes, she invites viewers to question their assumptions and envision alternative narratives.

As an artist, Nadia Perrotta’s passion for collective creation, community engagement, and the transformative power of art shines through her practice. Through her visionary work, she challenges conventional perspectives, fosters dialogue, and invites audiences to contemplate the complex connections between people and their surroundings.

Presentation: Murphy’s Adventures Book 1: It’s OK to Feel Lost

Embark on a captivating journey as we present Murphy’s Adventure, a groundbreaking comic book with songs that emerged from a remarkable collaboration with local artists, musicians, and young people during the UK’s first lockdown. This visionary project was born out of a shared goal: to find creative tools, foster friendship, and ignite hope as a means of coping with anxiety and boredom.

For an entire year, young participants, together with talented artists and musicians, united their imaginations to shape the story plot, develop captivating characters, and co-create inspiring songs. The result? A captivating book trilogy titled “Murphy’s Adventure,” with its first instalment aptly named “It’s OK to Feel Lost.”

In this engaging presentation, we will delve into the extraordinary journey behind Murphy’s Adventure, exploring how the power of artistic expression, collaboration, and friendship can be instrumental in navigating challenging times. Witness the profound impact of this unique collective effort as the young contributors’ ideas and inspirations intertwine, offering solace, empowerment, and a renewed sense of hope to young readers.

Join us as we celebrate the fusion of creativity and resilience displayed by these exceptional young voices, along with the invaluable contributions of local artists and musicians. Prepare to be inspired as we take you on an immersive exploration of Murphy’s Adventure and its transformative potential in the lives of young people. Together, let us discover the profound message of friendship, courage, and self-discovery that lies within the pages of this remarkable book trilogy. Join us as we celebrate the resilience and creativity of these young voices, showcasing their
extraordinary ability to find solace, express themselves, and offer a beacon of hope to others
facing similar challenges. Prepare to be inspired as we embark on an immersive exploration of
Murphy’s Adventure and the incredible story behind its creation.

Kent Arts Conference