As part of Saison vidéo, artconnexion proposed an evening encounter with the work of British artist Miranda Sharp and a screening of the video I love Basildon, 2009, 7mn

“I love Basildon” is the result of a residency in the Laindon area of Basildon, a post-war working class new town in Essex. After twelve weeks of specific training, Miranda Sharp played the role of a manicurist from the 1950s (the years when the town was built). In this way she comes into contact with the inhabitants of the neighbourhood, both literally and figuratively: through the dexterity of her touch and the attention she gives. In exchange for this delicate and surprising free action, the inhabitants converse with the artist and engage in considerations that relate the spirit of the place. The Genius Loci was the subject of this residency. In seven minutes, Miranda Sharp intertwines public and private space in the greatest respect for others, banishing voyeurism, despite the poignancy and violence of certain confidences transcribed in her diary. The film reveals the strangeness of a protocol where the artist, dressed in a retro manicure suit, wanders around Basildon and comes face to face with its inhabitants. Despite the crisis affecting their town, they show an attachment to their place of life.”

Mo Gourmelon, Saison Vidéo 2011, #34, p.48