11 figures with metal structures with fabric squares in the centre that appear to work like a flip chart. The figures all have a pictographic image on their square

Never Closer to Midnight

11 figures with metal structures with fabric squares in the centre that appear to work like a flip chart. The figures at the back have spelled out the word Never using their fabric squares.

A meditative, rhythmic, outdoor, live art installation by artist Janine Harrington, never closer to midnight was co-commissioned by Reading on Thames Festival and the University of Reading.

The project draws inspiration from the Doomsday Clock, a symbol imagined by scientists in 1947 to convey threats to humanity and the earth. The work was performed on the University of Reading’s Whiteknights Campus and in Reading town centre, by an 11-strong cast including members of the University and wider Reading communities. It explores our felt sense of urgency in the face of climate emergency.

In developing never closer to midnight, Harrington, whose practice involves choreography, installation, writing and performance, spoke with climate researchers from the University.

All photographs of never closer to midnight were taken by Roswitha Chesher. The photograph of Janine Harrington was taken by Christa Holka.

11 figures with metal structures with fabric squares in the centre that appear to work like a flip chart. The figures at the front have spelled out the word Closer using their fabric squares.

Doomsday Clock

Link to the Doomsday Clock website

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3 figures with metal structures with fabric squares in the centre that appear to work like a flip chart. The figures in the centre is currently 'flipping' a square with a burning building visible on the square underneath

In Partnership

Explore the University’s Climate Change Research

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A woman with short light brown hair, wearing a denim jacket, with her arms crossed.

Artist

Learn about the artist, Janine Harrington

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