A Snail's Tale

Kris Lemsalu has been alternately labeled a sculptor and a shaman, a feminist, a witch, and a punk—all monikers her shapeshifting self-portraits lap up playfully. The artist creates sculptures, installations, and performances piled high with multi-limbed ceramic creatures that appear to have escaped from fairytales we have yet to hear. Lemsalu’s ritualistic events and installations deal with transformation—from birth to death, and everything in between.

Lemsalu collaborates with artist and musician Kyp Malone to present their new commission A Snail’s Tale. The work features seven stations, each of which functions as a chapter in a story that unfolds as visitors traverse the park. The stations of music and narratives by the artists’ collaborators—performed by fellow artists, friends, and musicians—culminate on the Spur, with live performers presenting the climax of the story. The work stems from Lemsalu’s own nostalgia for returning to this city, as well as the dense history felt throughout the High Line and its surroundings. The performances features Lara Allen, Kate Farstad, Forrest Gillespie, Andi Maghenheimer, and Katy Pinke.

Event details:
Performers are stationed in the park between 17th St. and 30th St. on the Spur. Starting at 17th St. at 6:30pm, Lemsalu leads a walk north along the High Line, stopping at each performer’s station along the way. The performance ends with a finale at 30th St. at the Spur at approximately 7:30pm.

There will be seating and additional space for the audience to spread out on the Spur. Please note that event participants will be walking ~0.8 miles.

Accessibility
We encourage all persons with disabilities to attend. To request additional information regarding accessibility or accommodations at a program, please contact art@thehighline.org. Program venues are accessible via wheelchair, and ASL interpretation can be arranged two weeks in advance.

Organized by Melanie Kress, High Line Art Associate Curator.