Martina Helena Kaufmann‘s work revolves around the intersection of theatre and visual arts. She seeks out moments of ‘in-between’, that occur on the threshold between one space and another. It’s important to her that a work engages in dialogue with its environment, which is why she’s particularly fascinated by the implementation of site-specific works in outdoor and indoor spaces.
Having grown up in the Zurich metropolitan area, in between the big city and rural communities, she’s drawn to both worlds. In places where traditions and rituals are being redefined or social norms encounter new influences, questions arise that she explores in her work.
Her artistic process often starts with an investigative approach while observing and exploring a space or working with a wide variety of people. This results in sketches of a concept or a creation of texts. These texts often becoming accompanying texts or the inspiration that leads to the realisation of a work. The sound of the language and finding the right ‘embodiment’ for the text are the decisive elements in this process.
The series Em Klang a Laa-Gaa is an example that shows such an interstitial space. The cinematic and the sonic space are in dialogue with their respective environments.
Martina will undertake a Self-Directed Residency at The Tin Church in October 2026. At The Tin Church, she will spend the week gathering sounds, photos and videos, and engage with Gaelic language and culture, seeking to understand how local traditions are connected to nature.
