Firn snow, also called Névé, consists of partially compacted granular snow that is the intermediate stage between snow and glacial ice. Firn is found under the snow that accumulates at the head of a glacier. It is formed under the pressure of overlying snow by the processes of compaction, recrystallisation, localised melting, and the crushing of individual snowflakes. This process is thought to take a period of about one year. Annual layers of Firn may often be detected by thin films of dust or ash that accumulate on the surface during each summer. 

 

Taking this natural process as a starting point for a month long exhibition, Firn explored the processes of snow and snows temporality in a constantly changing environment. The space of Asylum Gallery and the work shown in it was to be constantly rearranged and re-contextualised throughout the month.

 

New pieces were created week on week in relation to what installations and gestures had happened in the previous week.

 

Firn explored elements of winter practices, whether as traditions or as ritual, these took form through objects, communal experiences and immersive installations.

 

The wider scope of the project will endeavour to explore our changing understanding of 'seasons' in the age of the Anthropocene, and how artists can operate in exploring our changing relationship with the environment.