Cecilia Bengolea on ‘Shelly Belly Inna Real Life’ & Dancehall Culture | 180 Studios
Cecilia Bengolea’s immersive video installation, Shelly Belly Inna Real Life, offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the vibrant world of Jamaican dancehall. Currently showing as part of The Vinyl Factory: Reverb exhibition at 180 Studios in London, the work—shot over a period from 2015 to 2019—is a continuation of Bengolea’s long-term engagement with the culture and its key figures, most notably the dancer Shelly Belly.
The exhibition, which runs until March 2, 2025 (with a closure between December 23, 2024 and January 8, 2025), presents Bengolea’s work alongside other artists exploring the intersection of sound and visual art. Bengolea’s contribution isn’t simply documentation. it’s a deeply felt exploration of the choreography, community, and social dynamics inherent in dancehall, a genre born in Jamaica that has become a global phenomenon.
A Continued Collaboration
This isn’t Bengolea’s first time collaborating with Shelly Belly, nor with The Vinyl Factory. In 2016, she partnered with artist Jeremy Deller to create Bom Bom’s Dream for The Infinite Mix exhibition, also produced with The Vinyl Factory. That earlier work, like Shelly Belly Inna Real Life, featured Shelly Belly prominently and delved into the energy and spirit of dancehall. As detailed in an interview with The Vinyl Factory, Bengolea’s approach is rooted in a sustained, observational practice, allowing the culture to reveal itself rather than imposing an external narrative.
Dancehall’s Complex Landscape
Bengolea’s work doesn’t shy away from the complexities surrounding dancehall. The artist’s interview touches on the often-fraught relationship between the Jamaican police and the dance scene, a dynamic that reflects broader societal tensions. Dancehall, while celebrated globally, has faced challenges within Jamaica itself, including scrutiny and restrictions. Bengolea’s film aims to present a nuanced portrait, acknowledging these tensions while celebrating the creativity and resilience of the dancers and communities involved.
Beyond the Steps: Context and Connection
For those unfamiliar, dancehall is more than just a style of music; it’s a cultural movement encompassing music, dance, fashion, and social commentary. Originating in the late 1970s in Kingston, Jamaica, it evolved from reggae and quickly developed its own distinct identity. The dance element is particularly crucial, characterized by energetic, often provocative movements that reflect the music’s rhythms and lyrical themes. It’s a space for self-expression, social commentary, and community building.
Bengolea’s interest in dancehall stems from a fascination with its physicality and its ability to create a sense of collective energy. Her background as a dancer and choreographer informs her approach, allowing her to connect with the dancers on a visceral level. She doesn’t position herself as an outsider looking in, but rather as a participant observing and responding to the energy of the scene. This is evident in the film’s intimate camerawork and its focus on the dancers’ movements and interactions.
The Vinyl Factory: Reverb – A Broader Perspective
Shelly Belly Inna Real Life is presented within the larger context of The Vinyl Factory: Reverb, an exhibition exploring the relationship between sound and visual art. The exhibition features a diverse range of artists and installations, all centered around the idea of sonic experience. 180 Studios, the venue hosting the exhibition, is known for its immersive and technologically advanced presentations. The space itself—located at 180 The Strand in London—is designed to enhance the sensory experience, creating a dynamic environment for the artworks on display.
Other featured artists in Reverb include Es Devlin, whose work Screenshare has also been highlighted by Fact Magazine. Devlin’s installation explores the power of collective listening and the emotional impact of sound. The exhibition as a whole aims to challenge conventional notions of art and music, inviting visitors to engage with sound in new and unexpected ways.
Looking Ahead: Bengolea’s Continued Exploration
Bengolea’s work consistently demonstrates a commitment to long-term engagement and a deep respect for the cultures she explores. Her ongoing relationship with Shelly Belly and the dancehall community suggests a continued interest in this vibrant and dynamic world. While specific future projects haven’t been announced, her previous collaborations and the immersive nature of Shelly Belly Inna Real Life point towards a continued exploration of movement, sound, and cultural exchange. The exhibition at 180 Studios provides a valuable opportunity to experience her work firsthand and gain a deeper understanding of the artistry and energy of Jamaican dancehall.
Tickets for The Vinyl Factory: Reverb are available through the 180 Studios website. The exhibition is open Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 12pm to 6pm.