This is an augmented reality’ (AR) app made by Adam James (b.1978), a British artist whose work brings people together, often using ‘live action role play’ (Larp).
KEMENETH – the Cornish word for community – is an artist’s project developed by James in collaboration with St Ives communities and Tate St Ives, which has a range of outcomes.
The app, running alongside an exhibition at Tate Ives, allows you to explore two AR environments – The Inclusive Isolationist Society and The Fiery Foraging Warriors – which can be discovered at two locations in St Ives.
Initiated by James, ‘PlayClub’ collaborators from St Ives met online to explore their experiences of 2019-20. The group created two fictional collectives that imagined solutions to individual, local and national needs. At each AR site you will discover sculptures that appear as relics of these alternative communities, celebrating the memories, relationships, stories and creativity of the characters and their authors that evolved within each collective. Using the app on your Smartphone, these outdoor public spaces are brought to life with an immersive experience that reflects the ideas and values of each of the two fictional collectives.
At The St Ives Community Orchard and Nature Reserve, find the former imagined site of The Fiery Foraging Warriors - a fire community modelled on equality, early foraging, and witch’s covens. Devised as a family, they stand against the unnecessary hoarding of wealth. They create the change they want to see through a simpler, more spiritually harmonious life, with a focus on learning together, sharing skills and resources.
At The Island, St Ives, find the former home of The Inclusive Isolationists Society - a creative community who have inhabited a fictional island of strange events. Responding to the risk of pandemics and a weariness from technology, they have sought refuge in a magical and secluded location. Making connections through an interest in creative practices this community is event focussed, placing renewed significance on collective play, discussion, and new forms of creativity.
Have fun exploring!
Adam James (b.1978) is a British artist whose work brings people together, often using ‘live action role play’ (LARP).