Overview

In September 2017, Nikhil Chopra transformed the historic Vulcan locomotive at the Museum of Science and Industry into Blackening: 3157, a stunning piece of art inspired by the 70th anniversary of Partition and the role railways played in the division of India and Pakistan.

Nikhil spent 48 hours with the locomotive, eating and sleeping in front of it while he created the giant artwork on canvas. The museum will remain open 24 hours a day for the duration of the performance, allowing visitors to gain a unique experience of the work.

He was accompanied by a bespoke soundtrack created by electronic music producer and DJ Masta Justy.

The Vulcan locomotive was manufactured in Newton-le-Willows in 1911 before being exported to India. Following Partition, it was one of the first locomotives to be used on the newly formed Pakistan Railways, where it remained in service until the early 1980s.

This performance was part of New North and South, a series of events, exhibitions, and interventions marking the anniversary of Partition.