art activism for
community development through
civic engagement and cultural exchange
Tea[r]
in search of energetic exchanges
Tea[r] is a visual performance stunt that seeks unity in a world where all appears separate. A displaced queer lover carries a large fragile cube; framing a safe, personal space wherein he can be alone, or spark an electric connection with a stranger. Temporary again, the lover vulnerably seeks the energy of new relationships, eye contact that speaks louder than language, and the touch of another in the here and now.
With no narrative, no language and no rules, performing Tea[r] is a liberating experience. The choreography is largely emotional rather than physical – while presenting a series of simple actions, this work focusing on presenting a series of energetic invitations.
The paper cube used in Tea[r] has a history and bears the scars of previous performances. It has been destroyed and repaired countless times and has travelled back and forth between Brisbane and Seoul on many occasions. Tea[r] vibrates between Korea and Australia, attempting to bring individuals from both countries closer together – to blur the boundaries between them and forge friendships.
Tear[r] was originally performed and filmed in Ui Cheon and was later performed at the 2009 Yeongpyeong International Performance Art Festival. The original video footage was later showcased as part of the multimedia performance, Nok Cha Café at the Under The Radar Festival (Brisbane, 2009), The Museum For Contemporary Arts Changdong Art Studios (Seoul, 2009), LG Fashion Gallery (Seoul, 2009) and Burnett Lane (Brisbane, 2010).