The SAS Somerset is an Iziko Maritime Museum artefact and the world’s last remaining Boom Defense Vessel, moored behind the Two Oceans Aquarium at The V&A Waterfront. This temporary installation will demonstrate a unique and dynamic use of dazzle patterning and lighting onto a mock assemblage of the SAS Somerset; a spectacle conceived to enliven and transform the perception of the vessel’s significance in location and history.

The project fulfils Hobbs’ long-time objective to artistically interpret two experimental periods in marine war tactics, namely, Razzle Dazzle Camouflage – a painted technique depicting a zebra-like pattern of inter-crossing lines and shapes – and Diffused Lighting Camouflage – where projectors mounted on a vessel change the colouration of a ship, and therefore alter the relationship of the ship to its surrounds.

Hobbs’ approach is based on his historical research of the vessel, its function and its appearance during war times. This research and his fascination with urban and natural camouflage, merge in a re-imagining of the vessel. The anticipated performance is conceived as a playful re-reading of these camouflage applications, which acknowledges the historical role that artists have played in creating deception in the battlefield.

SAS Somerset and Other War Stories provides a counterpoint to Hobbs’ solo exhibition, Permanent Culture, an elaborate multi-media revelry in the optical and psychological effects of camouflage, which opened at David Krut Projects Cape Town in February this year. Works from Permanent Culture will be on view alongside the installation for the duration of this pop-up exhibition.

For more information, call Jacqueline on +27 21 685 0676. Alternatively, email [email protected].