Series 2 NCC Prints, 2007
What exactly is Neasden Control Centre? We see the works of London-based Steve Smith’s graphics here and there. He doesn't restrict himself to one medium, he keeps his mystique like a good luck charm. Child-like in a sense and yet dangerous when you think about the operation. SUPERSWEET sends Holly Pester to see what is going on.
This week sees the opening of Capital Stupid. The eagerly anticipated show by Neasden Control Centre at Brighton’s much loved Permanent Gallery. Neasden Control Centre is has been the solo creation of Steve Smith since 2005, is something of an enigma. Surprised as I was to be granted an interview I just wanted to get to know the guy underneath the operation. But despite my best attempts I fear I’ve done revealed little more than a super-serious international art-making machine…
Smart Car Group Show (curated by Rojo), 2006
SS: Can I call you Neasden?
NCC: Yes.
SS: How would you describe your style?
NCC: I wouldn’t.
Allow me; the bold, enthralling graphics expelled from the NCC automaton are of complementary contradictions; spontaneity and premeditated sleekness; contemporary coolness with childish fantasy. NCC installation pieces subsume the space in wild colours and other worldly figures. The book-works demonstrate an expert grasp of the visual world, fusing precision designs with found images.
SS: What do you like to look for in your found images?
NCC: Character.
The Woods, 2007
Hmm… a tough nut to crack. Perhaps an opportunity to boast on the international acclaim and high profile clients…
SS: Where in the world does your work go down best? Asia, Europe, Brighton? What aspect of your practice do they go for?
NCC: It actually depends a lot from place to gallery to event, usually it tends to be installation based, a mixture between sculptural elements, video works, graphical works on paper and print...
This is progress. Now to find out how he works.
SS: What is the secret to a good collaboration?
NCC: It's a secret.
Damn foiled again!
BAM! Artist Group, Issue 1, 2008
SS: Do you have fixed idea of a piece of work when you start it, or do you let the work take you wherever it wants?
NCC: Fixed initial point with multiple outcomes during the build.
Especially for the Permanent Gallery and Bookshop NCC have produced a limited addition fanzine, representing the other side of their working style. Books!
SS: What's the attraction to working in book/fanzine format as opposed to large scale?
NCC: Little VS. large, they are totally different and equally attractive. Is this a trick math's question?
No Neasden, it isn't.
Barcelona Billboard, 2006
SS: So what is attractive about fanzine making and distribution? How does it differ to the lovely big book you made? (NCC has two large-scale project books under their belt, Neasden Control Centre and the recent Lost Control)
NCC: The Freedom of DIY self-publishing, making mistakes whilst not being too precious.
You can’t argue with that
SS: So what have you got in store for little Permanent Gallery?
NCC: http://neasdencontrolcentre.co.uk/2008/03/12/ permanent-gallery-update/
Good answer, I guess.
The Capital Stupid Show, 2008
SS: Did you make the work specifically for this show?
NCC: Yes - with each show new work shown.
SS: How much blood sweat and tears goes into putting an exhibition up?
NCC: In general you mean? Well.. A lot usually goes into the production of any show and related materials, obviously though this depends entirely on what is shown or constructed.
SS: How has this one been?
NCC: A 4 day install.
I decided not to broach Neasden any further on the matter; it was as painful and as transcendent as it needed to be. The space is transformed into a curious grotto of sensory explosions. And with such an incomparable style I’d say it’s pretty sensible to let the pictures do the talking. - Holly Pester
All photos copyrighted to Neasden Control Centre
For more info, visit www.neasdencontrolcentre.co.uk