The Reluctant Performer

Do you need to be a performer to perform? Perhaps not. This workshop is for those who are curious about performance but don’t consider themselves the typical performer. We will explore subtle ways the body can occupy space. You will learn about artists who have used unexpected methods of performance, such as Mierle Laderman Ukeles, Pepe Espaliú, and Yoko Ono with John Lennon. Later in the workshop, you will practice a few movements with your body, and have the option to create your own understated performance.

Performance art can be used for resistance and activism. However, for some groups it is unsafe to be an activist in public, where they might be targeted. For others, they may be unable to get out of bed due to disability or sickness. Others are simply exhausted after long days at work and just need to rest. The session is underpinned by disability justice, queer theory and an anti-capitalist stance. It is open to everyone. Please let us know if you have any access needs for this workshop.

David Mc Govern
David McGovern is a multidisciplinary artist and educator. Working with performance, video and text, he makes work that explores precarious elements of contemporary life: care, desire, the workplace, online behaviour, rejection and replacement. Participation is often part of his practice, having worked with LGBTQ+ non-profit ‘Shoutout’ and Rialto Youth Project. His writing has been published in The Stinging Fly, Holy Show and Fourteen Poems. He is a recipient of the Arts Council of Ireland’s Next Generation Award. At University of the Arts London, he teaches moving image and social art practice.