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Resonate: Sounds in the Gallery

Louis the Hippie

Join musician and spoken word artist Louis the Hippie as he performs and shares his connection to George Bellows' 'Men of the Docks'
Date
Friday, 8 December 2023
Time
6 - 6.45 pm (drop-in)

About

In a unique collaboration with Roony 'RiskyRoadz' Keefe, we welcome musician and spoken word artist Louis the Hippie for another 'Resonate' session in Room 41. Following an introduction from Roony, Louis will perform and share his connection with George Bellows' ‘Men of the Docks', exploring the themes of the painting and its relevance today. Louis will consider the contrasts portrayed in the painting: men waiting in line to work while the skyscrapers and liners against the Manhattan skyline symbolise a bustling metropolis; the dynamic centre of modern capitalism with the harsh reality of the people whose labour kept it functioning.

The session will begin with an introduction to the painting by Gallery Educator Fiona Alderton.

Louis the Hippie

Born in London, Louis the Hippie is a dynamic spoken-word artist, rapper, and public speaker who uses his platform to shed light on critical social issues and inspire positive change.

With a passionate focus on mental health and human psychology, Louis delves deep into the complexities of the human experience, inviting his audiences to engage in introspection as well as meaningful dialogue. Through his eloquent spoken word pieces, he navigates the intricacies of emotions and challenges societal norms, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us. Louis's ability to connect with his audience extends beyond the stage, as he has built a substantial following on social media platforms. ​

Louis has been featured on BBC, Sky News, and worked with ITN and World Vision, as well as having been invited to number 10 Downing Street to perform for Cabinet Office, MPs, and civil leaders. He continues to use his artistry and voice as a catalyst for change, advocating for empathy, compassion, and a better understanding of the human condition.

Roony 'RiskyRoadz' Keefe

Roony 'RiskyRoadz' Keefe is an award-winning music video director and documentary filmmaker. He co-curated 'Grime Stories: From the Corner to the Mainstream', an exhibition at the Museum of London honouring the music, people, and places central to the grime scene and its roots. He has had a number of Royal TV Society nominations. His documentary series Risky Roadz helped kickstart the careers of many MCs in the early days of grime and galvanised the scene’s visual aesthetic. Artists he captured include Skepta, Double E, Kano, Lethal B, Ghetts, Chip, and JME. Standing on both sides of the lens, Roony has various projects on the horizon.

Fiona Alderton

Fiona Alderton is a Gallery Educator and storyteller. With a background in performing, she writes and gives sessions for adults and children, including commissions for various organisations such as the National Portrait Gallery, Dulwich Picture Gallery, and the Royal Opera House in London.

Music & performance

Resonate: Sounds in the Gallery

Louis the Hippie

Join musician and spoken word artist Louis the Hippie as he performs and shares his connection to George Bellows' 'Men of the Docks'
Date
Friday, 8 December 2023
Time
6 - 6.45 pm (drop-in)

Free, drop-in session

Although these events do not require booking, you will need to book a free Gallery entry ticket to gain admission to the National Gallery. We encourage you to book ahead of your visit.

Please note, Gallery entry does not guarantee admission to these events. Places are available on a first come, first served basis.