About the Experiments
The following experiments and impromptu performances explore various ways the artist can temporarily interrupt commercial spaces and engage with audiences. They have informed the final pieces and the theoretical research for Pop-Up Art.
Experiments
Mishap
Mishap took the form of a simple gesture—spilling the contents of a briefcase into pedestrian traffic. The action was repeated in multiple locations to gather a range of responses. It proved difficult to assess the different reactions in such a brief encounter. When passersby engaged it appeared to reveal kindness and empathy. When passersby did not assist, it begged the question of whether it was my business suit and it’s associations with power, the way pedestrians are conditioned to engage or disengage in public space, the fear of corruption or apathy that prevented people from helping.
Mishap (Shanghai)
Supported by a Student Mobility Grant
and Art in Public Space at RMIT University
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Shanghai, China
Mishap (Tokyo)
Supported by Australia Council for the Arts
and Youkobo Artspace in Toyko
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Tokyo, Japan
Mishap (New Delhi)
New Delhi, India
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Mishap (Melbourne)
Melbourne, Australia
September 2013—January 2015
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Click on main picture to view full size images
Shanghai Pyjamas
Shanghai Pyjamas was an impromptu intervention into the heart of Nanjin Road, Shanghai's major shopping precinct. Four performers entered the mall and underground station wearing silk pyjamas purchased at local stores.
Supported by a Student Mobilty Grant
and Art in Public Space at RMIT University
Shanghai, China
September 2013
Free Tissues
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Tissue-pack marketing is a popular form of guerrilla advertising in Japan. In 2014, I borrowed this method to test whether art could successfully hijack advertising. I distributed 300 of my own branded tissue packs to pedestrians.
Supported by Youkobo Artspace
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Shinjuku, Tokyo
May 2014