Emmanuel Massillon and Allen-Golder Carpenter
Consultant: Aziah James Lusala
Cell 72: The Cost of Confinement
London Gallery Weekend Performance: 6-8th June 2025 12am-12am (72 hours)
Harlesden High Street presents Emmanuel Massillon & Allen-Golder Carpenter ‘Cell 72: The Cost of Confinement’ (6 June – 6 August 2025)
This exhibition will transform the gallery into a prison cell for over 72 hours, during which the conceptual artist Allen-Golder Carpenter will live inside the cell. The purpose of this exhibition is to provide a raw and unfiltered insight into the inhuman conditions and psychological effects of incarceration, drawing attention to the often overlooked realities of prison life. The gallery space, known for its intimate size, creates an immersive experience.
The all-glass storefront allows for passersby to witness the performance, adding a unique element of public engagement to the work.
This setting will create a powerful contrast between the freedom outside the glass and the confinement within, enhancing the emotional impact of the piece.
It is crucial to clarify that this exhibition is not intended to exploit prison culture for profit. Instead, it aims to raise awareness about the harsh realities faced by inmates in the American prison system. To further underline our commitment to this cause, 15% of the exhibition sales will be donated to a DC prison reform organisation and HMP Feltham.
The exhibition featured a small number of installations that Allen will interact with in the durational performance, each representing different aspects of prison life. In conjunction with the artworks created during the performance and presented as part of The Cost of Confinement, Allen-Golder Carpenter and Emmanuel Massillon, also presented a number of affordable editions. These included a publication, limited edition posters, and a special edition t-shirt. All available in the bio.
Special thanks to everyone who attended and supported the project.
Additional photos courtesy of Damian Griffiths
Huge thank you to @littlesimz for giving us the opportunity to bring our project to life — it means the world. Massive love to everyone at @southbankcentre for all the support. Grateful beyond words 🖤✨ & We appreciate everyone who showed up, Until Next Time. #MeltDownFestival #LiveShow #Southbank #Eglise #Installation #Performance
📸: @quincymadeit
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the @saatchi_gallery , the @l_d_f_official , @maaspacebetween and the @londonartcollective_official for the incredible platform they’ve provided. Special thanks to @nelson.qin and @byjoerichards for their unwavering support and guidance — it means the world!
A huge shoutout as well to the @royalcollegeofart . My experience there has been nothing short of transformative. They provided me with a safe space to speak freely about my practice and life without judgment, just understanding.
Their support has been instrumental in helping me grow, both as an artist and as an individual, and I am endlessly grateful for every opportunity.
#ARTLIFE
