Jennifer Lacey
FAT (Fake Art Therapy)

FAT (Fake Art Therapy) Attention: this event is not really fake, definitely not therapy and the art part is up for grabs. In this workshop we practise small group performances (2-4 people) wherein the performance terrain is displaced from the stage towards the sensation of one body. Using the real somatic knowledge and concentration skills picked up along the way of practising dance we will develop performance scores that address the esthetic experience of one audience member (whom we will also be from time to time). The spectacular aspects of the medical, beauty care and body work environments are possible starting places for our performance practices. The generally assumed passivity of the spectator will be magnified in this situation and allow it to deepen its intensity. We can solicit a place of deep active attention (thinking) that arises from relaxation and passivity. What kind of "content" can be addressed in this situation? Until what point can we continue to construct our performances from purely formal issues? As we proceed with these performances we will try to continue to make art, not just nice experiences. IMPORTANT: As therapy assumes a pathology that needs fixing or resolving, we are definitely NOT doing therapy. That being said, here is our code of ethical conduct within the context of this workshop: - We will assume the basic wholeness of our audience members and not try to fix them - We will take the idea of transformation implied in the performance experience and try to bring it closer to the surface - We will take the imperative to "consider the public" literally - We will examine the entertainment value of care taking - We will make performances that will be deeply reassuring while constantly shifting the experience of identity within the audience members body This form will allow us to play doctor and at the same time investigate and shake up performance tropes, what could be more fun? Please do not take this workshop if you have difficulties being touched or difficulties with communicating safe personal boundaries.