Acclaimed performance artist Nikhil Chopra brought his unique style of storytelling to Southbank Centre in May 2016 with a major new commission, The Black Pearl: The City from the River. Chopra took up residency at the Royal Festival Hall, where he spent 98 hours living, sleeping, eating, and working in costume on an open set, as visitors observed the live creation of a large­-scale artwork. The glass façade of the 5th floor of the Royal Festival Hall acted as the canvas for an extensive drawing made from oil pastels and lipstick. Audiences watched the artwork unfold from Thursday 26 May to Monday 30 May, and the commission remained in place until 1 September 2016. The event was free to attend.

The Goa-based artist arrived at Southbank Centre by boat, following a 24-hour journey along London’s waterways in which he captured the sights and sounds of the city through drawings, photographs, and recordings. These elements formed part of the final artwork, which was also influenced by Chopra’s personal experiences and the cultural history of his homeland. Themes such as the colonial relationship between Britain and India, how Britishness had redefined itself over the past 50 years, and the influence of Chopra’s Punjabi roots came together in a fascinating fusion of ideas.

Throughout the duration of the event, Chopra blended live art with performance, taking on three personas, including a 'Punjabi aunty'. The performance artist – whose artistic practice ranged between live art, theatre, painting, photography, sculpture, and installations – was known for his use of personas to express ideas about times, places, and identities. For his Southbank Centre commission, Chopra’s persona was called ‘The Black Pearl’, a title that had historically been given to people for their exceptional talent, while also referring to the colour of their skin. The performance materialised in slow, considered movements, adding another layer of intrigue for audiences who watched the spectacle.