FINALISING WORKSHOP/PERFORMANCE IDEAS: PART 1

Based on input from the group and tutors, it may be that the initial idea of running a workshop around ideas of designing drawing, and finding what bridges the gap between art and design through drawing, it may be that this concept would be better suited to a performance piece. I realised that the workshop might have been quite intimidating for members of the public as it requires good problem solving skills and a confidence in drawing and mark making. While I will cater to those that wish to participate in the performance so that a workshop may ensue, both I and Dave Griffiths agreed in my tutorial that these concepts would be better understood through showing, presenting and translating as opposed to doing.
                In many respects, a performance lends itself more efficiently to the concept than a workshop, but I do have a few concerns regarding doing a practical, drawing-based performance on the night:

• It may make the public feel very uninvolved with the work and that it has nothing to do with them, or that it in some ways may be above them.
• It is an event on the night that takes more than it gives back. Is it a selfish piece of work?
• Is it enough for the audience to simply observe the performance as a means of engaging with the concept?
• It might be more relevant to produce the work beforehand and show it as a collection of works on the night, along with the instructions and rules. By producing the work there, what effect does this have? Is there any need for it to be a performance? What does the performative element of the work add, if anything?
• Where might this work be situated? Floor or wall? Freestanding?
• Which part of the exhibition does it chime with? Is there one? Is there any way of adapting the content of the instructions so that they correlate with some of the pieces in the exhibitions?

I will consider all these issues over Easter and consult the group on the 20th of April to see what they think and if they have any suggestions or criticisms. I will also collect materials that I may need in the meantime, such as different papers, wire, tape, pencils, pens and markers etc.