In de Bosjes

In de Bosjes (In the Bushes) is a multimedia experiential installation that seeks the tension of intersecting gazes. The natural materials used in the work are combined with projected images. The space welcomes the audience into a secret reality, safely hidden under the branches and between the dead leaves. The installation includes audio snippets from interviews with cruisers. These fragments of stories invite the audience to explore the installation as a space. They are free to linger if they wish, observe and examine and, if consensual, close contact is allowed.

During his residency at Theater Van Deyssel (Frascati Theater, Amsterdam), Barnaby focused on delving into the history of the natural and cruising area known as de Oeverlanden in the Nieuw West district of Amsterdam. In January 2024 he investigated this further, introducing a diverse range of experiences happening in the bushes during Come Together (9) at Frascati Theater. 

In de Bosjes is a continuation Barnaby’s ongoing research into the history of cruising, exploring the seeking and engaging in sexual contact in public spaces. Since 2020, Barnaby has dedicated his efforts to research his local queer history, starting in Amsterdam. Motivated by an and local queer history, his project aspires to create a visibility and conversation for sexual freedom by connecting research and artistic practices that circle the subject of public sex.