LIVERPOOL.- A large, fluorescent image of Richard Branson, with orange cables protruding from his eyes, is the focus of a new exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery. Benedict Drew: KAPUT, which runs from 28 October 2016 until 26 February 2017, explores the concept of space tourism through a thrilling, immersive installation owned by the Arts Council Collection.

Using a combination of video, audio and sculptural elements, artist Benedict Drew reflects on society’s uncertain relationship with technology. Beneath the image of Branson – who founded Virgin Galactic, the first company dedicated to civilian space travel - Virgin spacecrafts soar across two screens, a foil backdrop flickers and the room buzzes with the sound of feedback, accompanied by the eerie sound of a saxophone.

For the visitor, psychedelic colours and music combine to create an environment that appears to be straight from the artist’s imagination. KAPUT (2015) presents a dark, dystopian response to what Drew describes as ‘the horrors of the modern world’.

Artist Benedict Drew said: “KAPUT considers how the once utopian idea of space tourism was lost to the ultimate oligarch adventure, fronted by Virgin Galactic. Much in the same way, from the 17th century onwards, the European Grand Tour offered a tourism experience that could only be appreciated by the privileged, wealthy few. KAPUT proposes an alternative; to self-oscillate into a trance, to trust in the visions – there is knowledge in the visions – and to travel the inner spaceways.”

Born in Australia in 1977, Whitstable-based Drew has exhibited artwork and performance pieces in solo and group shows both in the UK and internationally.

Running alongside KAPUT, the Walker also presents a selection of works by artists from north-west England. Looking North (28 October 2016 – 26 February 2017) showcases paintings, ceramics, sculpture and film, some of which have been drawn from the Arts Council Collection. Works by Mary Griffiths, Joe Fletcher Orr, Paul Rooney, Jason Thompson and Jesse Wine feature.

Visitors can also see ZOO LOGIC by Mark Leckey at the Gallery until 26 February 2016. This exhibition presents two unmissable installations by Turner Prize-winning artist Mark Leckey: Inflatable Felix and FEELINTHECAT; a 70th anniversary Arts Council Collection Commission.

The Walker Art Gallery has recently been announced as an Arts Council Collection National Partner. The Arts Council Collection is managed by Southbank Centre, London on behalf of Arts Council England.