Audio-visual installation - single channel projection, 5.1 surround audio, multi-screen video on CRT monitors

This installation of STEPHEN intentionally blurs the lines between fact and fiction to address urgent social issues of mental health, addictions and isolation, as well as the power of collective creativity.

Manchot has worked with longstanding collaborator Stephen Giddings, who lends his name to the title of the film and plays the lead role. The work is made with a mixed cast of professional actors and local people from the recovery community. Stephen, who portrays both Goudie and himself, draws on his own experiences of addiction recovery in a story that entangles lived and acted realities.  Manchot has worked with the participants to showcase a selection of supporting footage within the installation, which foregrounds the production process, character development and cast relationships.

STEPHEN was commissioned by Liverpool Biennial.

Courtesy of the artist and Liverpool Biennial. Images by Stuart Whipps.