Video, audio, and piano by Nick Stewart

In March 2020, I needed a break and booked the Caledonian Sleeper Train from London to the Scottish Highlands. But, on the third and last day, walking on a wintery hillside, I overstepped and found myself face-down with a broken leg. The overnight journey back to London became an endurance test of jagging pain. I didn’t sleep. Instead, I spent much of the 12-hour journey videoing out the conveniently placed window in my sleeping compartment.

I considered a voice-over for this improvised video, but opted instead for a piano soundtrack, a piece that I had recently improvised. Of course, making this work, I was reminded of John Grierson’s iconic 1936 film, Night Mail, which was shot on the same night-time journey.

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Since the 1980s Nick Stewart has created a diverse body of exhibitions and publications in, drawing, performance, video and photography. He has published two books and, more recently, completed his first feature length film. A wide range of interests and research informs his work but the question of place and national identity in the context of Ireland is of particular concern to him. Nick has been the recipient of numerous awards, residencies and commissions including, The Canada Council, The British Council, The British Film Institute and the Royal Festival Hall in London. He has exhibited widely in the UK, Ireland, Canada, USA, Europe, India and Vietnam.