Cecilia Bengolea’s ‘Shelly Belly Inna Real Life’ Explores Jamaican Dancehall Culture

Argentinian artist and choreographer Cecilia Bengolea’s video installation, Shelly Belly Inna Real Life, offers an intimate look into the world of Jamaican dancehall. The perform, showcased as part of The Vinyl Factory: Reverb exhibition at 180 Studios in London, explores the choreography, community, and cultural context surrounding this vibrant dance form.

A Deep Dive into Dancehall

Shelly Belly Inna Real Life accompanies dancehall icon Shelly Belly, providing a close examination of the artistry and social dynamics within the dancehall scene. Bengolea’s work delves into the lives of the participants and the broader culture that sustains this energetic art form. The exhibition, which ran from May 22, 2024, to March 2, 2025 (with a closure from December 23, 2024, to January 8, 2025), aimed to create immersive and thought-provoking spaces that highlight the collaborative power of art, film, and sound. The Vinyl Factory’s Reverb exhibition celebrated 20 years of art and music.

Bengolea’s Previous Collaboration with Jeremy Deller

This isn’t Bengolea’s first engagement with dancehall or The Vinyl Factory. In 2016, she collaborated with Jeremy Deller to create Bom Bom’s Dream for The Infinite Mix exhibition. Bom Bom’s Dream followed the adventures of a Japanese dancer known as Bom Bom and also featured Shelly Belly in a prominent role.

The Vinyl Factory: Reverb Exhibition Details

The Vinyl Factory: Reverb was held at 180 Studios, located at 180 The Strand, London, WC2R 1EA. The exhibition was open on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 12pm to 7pm, and on Sundays from 12pm to 6pm. More information about The Vinyl Factory’s releases can be found on their website.