As a performance artist for the exhibition “We the Artist,” I immersed myself in a piece that resonated deeply with my own experiences. Jesus, the featured artist, has always been intrigued by limits and the border between the real and the virtual.
For my performance, I wore a panda costume, which referenced a significant moment in Jesus’s early career when he had to dress up in a turtle costume to make ends meet. This moment prompted Jesus to reflect on the unfairness of life for artists, who often have to mask themselves and play various roles to pursue their passions. At that time, I felt this message resonated strongly with me as I was also struggling with the role of survival in Brussels. Playing this character gave me a sense of relief and solidarity, knowing that I was not alone in these struggles.
During the performance, I interacted with people at the embassy, embodying the role of Jesus by greeting them and performing silly dances for individuals of high status, blue-collar workers, and embassy personnel alike. This interaction was meant to break down social barriers and highlight the absurdity of life and roles. The performance culminated in a reveal where Jesus appeared on a big screen, and I showed my real face. This reveal was crucial as it symbolized the shedding of the masks we wear and the unveiling of our true selves. It served as a powerful reminder of the artist’s journey and the reality behind the roles we play, emphasizing the authenticity and vulnerability that lie beneath the surface.
Group Exhibitions
We, The Artists
