2023
Substitute
Delegated performance
"Parts of human and animal body (head, hair, teeth, saliva, blood, etc) are known to be cult objects in ancient times and were used as magical items. In primitive magic they were regarded as powerful talismans, as a double (substitute) of human being."
E. Besolova, Z. Gabunina. On the emblematic function and cultural semantics of hair. Izvestyia SOIGSI 23 (62) 2017
We are not enough, we are too timid, weak, slow. In critical circumstances we would prefer that anyone but not us would face a complex situation and solve it. This night it is possible. Through a performative action you can create your Substitute and instruct it to act in the Situation. The Substitute can act in past and future, it doesn't know human fear. When the time comes the Substitute will do everything as you say.
E. Besolova, Z. Gabunina. On the emblematic function and cultural semantics of hair. Izvestyia SOIGSI 23 (62) 2017
We are not enough, we are too timid, weak, slow. In critical circumstances we would prefer that anyone but not us would face a complex situation and solve it. This night it is possible. Through a performative action you can create your Substitute and instruct it to act in the Situation. The Substitute can act in past and future, it doesn't know human fear. When the time comes the Substitute will do everything as you say.
1
Place yourself in from of the mirror. Look at your reflection. Think of a situation that you find unbearable to face. A situation that you fear to fail (or already failed in the past).
2
Take a comb. Start brushing your hair, visualising the Situation and the way you would act in it devoid of fear, concern, mercy. Think of it in detail - what would you do, what would you say.
3
As soon as you've built the Situation in your head, take the hair from the comb. Together with the comb place the hair in the bag. Put it aside. This lock of hair will become your Substitute.
4
Instruct your Substitute. Take a sheet of paper and a pen and write a sequence of words and actions required to face the Situation. Start with the words "When your time comes..."
5
Place the note in the bag. Pin it on the wall. Be sure that when the time comes your Substitute will do everything as you said.
Substitute
by Anastasia Albokrinova
0 room, Samara, May 20th, 2022
Technical specs:
Delegated performance, duration 2 hrs.
by Anastasia Albokrinova
0 room, Samara, May 20th, 2022
Technical specs:
Delegated performance, duration 2 hrs.
