I'm very happy to share that the performance Record has been awarded the Werner Fenz Grant for Art in Public Space 2026, jointly presented by steirischerherbst and the City of Graz.

This recognition means a lot to me and to a practice that explores the political potential of withdrawal, absence and invisibility.

Record will be presented as part of steirischer herbst '26 in Graz on October 4th.

“In a context shaped by the demand for constant visibility and productivity, Record explores the political potential of withdrawal and invisibility. Inspired by the figure of the hikikomori—individuals who isolate themselves as a refusal of societal expectations—the project reimagines retreat not as passivity but as a form of resistance. Through a site-specific choral performance with young participants, it reflects on social isolation, reclaiming withdrawal as a fragile yet powerful way of inhabiting public space. Presented in Graz, the work resonates with the city’s history of independent cultural practices and its current transformations around housing and youth precarity.”

RECORD - credits

Creation: Francesca Grilli Words: Azzurra D’Agostino, Piffi Stuntwoman training: Lisa Patoor Movements: Benno Steinegger Choir director and vocal trainer: Ine Claes Composer: Christophe Albertijn Rigger: Stefan Sonnleitner Production assistant: Elena Regazzoni Graphic design: Marzia Dalfini  Communication: Ilaria Depari

Commissioned by the City of Graz and steirischer herbst ’26

Production: Hiros Coproduction: Snaporazverein, VIERNULVIER, workspacebrussels, Adiacenze Bologna, Indisciplinarte Terni, Høstscena Partners: KAAP, Kaaitheater, BASE Milano, Høstscena, Bunker / Mladi Levi festival With the support of: Vlaamse Gemeenschap, Corpoceleste, WpZimmer, VGC,  Istituto Italiano di Cultura