SILBERSALZ Festival presents “SHRINK 01995” by Lawrence Malstaf
Under the motto “Me, improvable?”, this year’s SILBERSALZ Festival, taking place from 28 October to 1 November 2026, explores how health shapes our lives – today and in the future. Through exhibitions, hands-on activities, talks and interactive experiences, the festival creates spaces for people to discover, experience and discuss science together.
One of this year’s highlights is “SHRINK 01995”, a striking performative installation by internationally renowned Belgian artist Lawrence Malstaf, presented at Konzerthalle Ulrichskirche in Halle from 28 to 30 October.
SHRINK 01995 – Body, Breath and Perception
Breath is at the heart of “SHRINK 01995”. Suspended between two large transparent sheets, a person appears to float weightlessly in space. Enclosed within this artificial skin, the performer holds two tubes: one removes air, while the other provides a continuous supply of fresh air. As the air between the sheets is gradually extracted, the material closes tightly around the body, restricting its movement.
What may initially seem claustrophobic becomes an extraordinary experience poised between control and surrender, protection and vulnerability. The work offers a new perspective on the body and invites us to reflect on vulnerability and resilience.
Become Part of the Performance!
We are looking for ten participants who would like to perform in “SHRINK 01995” after taking part in an intensive workshop led by Lawrence Malstaf. This is a unique opportunity to work directly with the artist, explore new forms of physical expression and participate in a public performance as part of SILBERSALZ Festival.
To prepare for the workshop, participants will receive a simple breathing exercise to practise at home during the preceding week. Participants must be available for the workshop, rehearsals and performance dates listed below.
Would you like to take part? Complete the application form and send it together with a portrait photo to i.couchouron@silbersalz-festival.com by 16 October 2026.
SCHEDULE
Each performance lasts approximately 20 minutes.
27 October | Konzerthalle Ulrichskirche
12:00–19:00 – Workshop with Lawrence Malstaf
28 October | Konzerthalle Ulrichskirche
14:00–17:00 – Rehearsals
19:00 – Performance 1
20:00 – Performance 2
29 October | Konzerthalle Ulrichskirche
17:00 – Performance 1
18:00 – Performance 2
20:30 – Performance 3
30 October | Konzerthalle Ulrichskirche
17:00 – Performance 1
18:00 – Performance 2
19:00 – Performance 3
20:00 – Performance 4