Oliver Herring Calls All Performance Artists

Oliver Herring, Gloria, at Art Basel Miami. Image via: NYTimes

Does anything say “first week of the season” like an open call for a Performa project? Probably — the biennial takes place more than two months from now, but it only seems appropriate to acknowledge the passing of Labor Day in our first post of the week.

It also seems likely that at least a few readers will take interest in Oliver Herring’s solicitation for performers. No experience is necessary for this gig, but a willingness to throw yourself into the arms of a stranger or two is a plus and availability between November 20 — 22 is essential. Contact herring.performa@gmail.com to apply. Deadline September 30th. Complete details available after the jump.

An artist's note: “I am looking for applications from a wide variety of people from which to choose between 5 and 10 participants. Like in all of my work, no previous experience in performance, theater, dance or art are necessary. I look for personality and motivation. Your age can range from 1 to 100 years old, with any body-type, of any gender, race, creed, religion, culture, political affiliation, or economic bracket.

The performance will be physical and probably somewhat exhausting. However, I'll tailor whatever happens within your limitations and comfort zone. I've worked with many people who've never done anything like it before. The performance will be built on our collective energy, ability and interests. However, it'll probably include throwing yourself into the arms of a stranger or two, and end up doing something that vaguely resembles some sort of dance! Don't' worry, we'll meet a few times before.

The performance will stretch over three days, each day will be different and you don't need to participate in all of it. Most likely, you'll be performing only once. The project will be amazingly fun, an utterly unique experience and remembered for posterity as a video.”

Applicants: please write us your age, profession (if any), gender, a way of contacting you, and let us know why you want to participate. Applications start now and will be wrapped up by September 30th.

Oliver will select approximately 20 people to meet in person in order to make his final selection.