Narc. Magazine Online
Reliably informed
We find out as much as we can about the Newcastle-based artist ahead of their film installation (Thursday 24th September-Saturday 3rd October) and live performance (3rd October) as part of Middlesbrough Art Week
Who are you and where are you from?
Kate Stobbart. I’ve lived/worked as both an artist and a medic all over the place and am now back in my hometown Newcastle as a full-time artist.
What is it you do?
I’m an artist working in video, words, sculpture and live events. My work focuses on the social and emotional dimensions of ordinary language and interpersonal communication. I’m really interested in the value of hesitations and hesitant behaviour…and fascinated by the different ways we communicate (or don’t) through words and movement. I look at what is said (and unsaid), tone of voice, and the influence of bodily gestures on how our words are perceived. I often use discarded materials such as cardboard.
How long have you been doing it?
I’ve always loved making things but took to it ‘seriously’ later in life…when I did an art degree in my 40s. I’ve been making art ever since.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by creativity, wit, and the understated and often overlooked aspects of everyday life. I’m particularly influenced by the work of Georges Perec, the French artist and novelist – and his use of humour and lists. I also love dancing to very loud music.
Tell us about your work.
Most of my video practice explores human gesture, while my text and performance work focuses on spoken language and non-verbal communications such as screams, sighs, um’s, er’s and clapping. A recent live piece brought people together to make a single collective scream to mark Trump’s ongoing presidency – blending humour with genuine political anxiety.
Other recent work explores one-sided mobile phone calls that seep into public spaces.
My 2025/2026 exhibitions include The Late Shows, Cobalt Studios, 36 Gallery at Lime Street Studios, and XL Gallery at the Hatton.
What have you got coming up in the future?
My current exhibition is a film installation and a live performance for Middlesbrough Art Week – on now. Details below – please come visit and say hello!
Pop-up Venue: 15 Queen’s Square, Middlesbrough, TS2 1AA
Film Installation: Thurs 24 Sept-Sat 3 Oct (Closed Mon-Tues)
Hours: 10am-5pm (Sun 12-4pm)
Live Event: Sat 3 Oct (12-3pm)
Access: Step Free
I’m also starting work on a new project for 2027 at Lime Street Studios where I am based in the Ouseburn – watch out on my socials for announcements soon.
Where can people find out more about you?
Follow me on Insta: @katestobbart_art
Come see my website: https://katestobbart.uk
