Chaos Theory \\ Metahaven
An audiovisual poem structured around the dialogues and wanderings of two characters confronting the contemporary world and its puzzling flows of interconnected phenomena.
Chaos Theory is an audiovisual poem structured around the dialogues and wanderings of two characters: X and Y/Z as they reflectively confront the contemporary world and its puzzling flows of interconnected phenomena. Avoiding the use of conventional narrative language and the binaries of information technology, Chaos Theory operates as a non-linear tale challenging the divisions between fiction and fact, shared realities and dreams. Shot on location in the outskirts of Amsterdam, the movie’s landscape appears in contrast with its dreamlike scenes and the open-ended poetics of its dialogues.
Referencing snapshots of public transport upholstery that appear throughout the film, reclaimed bus seating is presented as both a functional material and a metaphorical object, echoing X’s words: “I see us in things that are not us; in the drawings of the seats on the bus.” The fabric itself, named Vigor, is a globally used standard in public transport interiors, and its inclusion within the installation creates an unexpected connection between the film’s location in Amsterdam and the exhibition context of Barnsley. Mirroring the abstract shapes and graphic patterns that recur throughout the film, this everyday, hidden-in-plain-sight surface is recontextualised as a site of critical enquiry, inviting viewers to look beyond habitual forms of perception.
Chaos Theory (2021) by Metahaven is presented as part of AND Festival 2026 with support from Barnsley Council and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The work is held in the permanent collection of Guggenheim Bilbao Museoa.
How to experience Chaos Theory
Chaos Theory is free and drop in. It takes place in The Ironworks building at the back of the Elsecar Heritage Centre site. The Ironworks building is accessible through the entrance space on Biram Street.
We recommend you plan your visit around your booked slot for Acoustic Memories.
Chaos Theory is a screen based audiovisual poem played on one large screen. Each loop of the work lasts around 25 minutes. There will be low light levels, but the screen/projection will provide some additional lighting.
The sound environment will be made up of ambient noise, captioned French, Hungarian, Basque, and English vocals, and foley sounds with audio at a medium volume level.
Age Guidance
We recommend the minimum age for this installation is 12+. It features a cinematic exploration of the relationship between two protagonists exploring parenthood, childhood, and sisterhood with themes and content more suitable for older children.
Access Provisions
- Chaos Theory will include subtitles and be captioned.
- There will be a mixture of seating options, including backed seating.
- There will be low light levels, but the screen will provide some additional lighting. The route around the space will be lit to help you find your way.