BLOT – BODY LINE OF THOUGHT

performance | 42 min | 2022
DESCRIPTION

BLOT explores movement in relation to the bacteria in our body. The show presents the body as an interconnected system, strong and fragile at the same time. Designed as a hybrid performance, a mix of conference and choreographic show, BLOT talks about similarities between humans and other animals, such as perspiration, smell, reproduction, physical exercise, and immunity. From micro to macro, the performance addresses how bacteria influence these processes and connect us with the planet.

CONCEPT

Following the events that have defined the recent history of our interaction with the environment, it is necessary to look at the body as a system that cannot exist outside the multitudes it contains. Stripped of the social meanings determined by language, in BLOT the body is redefined through a dialogue about our coexistence with microbiological beings. The two female performers work with seemingly invisible connections, but without which the human organism could not function.

BLOT analyses human existence through dependence and control, focusing on the fine line between what is useful and what is toxic. Our bodies have unique microbial fingerprints, which define our identity. Our social choreography is often challenged by a lack of balance between the inner and outer worlds, which we continuously disturb.

THE PROCESS

Salt is a restructuring, cleaning, and binding agent. The human body cannot survive without sodium. Salt is shared by all, from ocean to soil and body, and is an essential supporter of life on earth. In BLOT, a dune of salt creates another body on stage. Our perspiration system defines our biological identity through our unique body odor created by bacteria. During the 40 minutes of performance, another small dune is created by a device hanging from the ceiling.

Before every performance, the two performers grow cultures of their body bacteria in Agar-Agar for one month and visualize a Petri dish’s content during the show. This process generates choreographed imagery of their microbe culture broadcasted on TV. The images portray a micro-world that, when exposed, looks like a macro landscape of an alien world.

BLOT uses ideas borrowed from anatomy, transporting the body into states of repetition, fluidity, compassion, and empathic reactions. In BLOT, movement is a transitory presence and an intersubjective experience. Through this method, the artists test different ways of living concerning nature, affecting and being affected.

Great artists have contributed to the creation and development of the project since it was first initiated. Olivia Nitis (art curator) and Marta de Menezes (BioArt creator and curator) have advised the two choreographers. Visual artist Ciprian Ciuclea and stage designers Paula Viitanen and Juan Carlos Aldazosa Bazúa have helped Deaconescu and Goodman design the project. Ukrainian electronic musician Monocube created the soundtrack, immersed in the artistic research of the two dance artists.

In 2022, CNDB – The National Centre for Dance in Bucharest, commissioned the creative tandem to resume BLOT and create a show for the stage with a Romanian cast consisting of Simona Dabija and Maria Luiza Dimulescu. Joining the research methodology, the two performers analyzed their bacteria cultures under a microscope, exploring movement from the perspective of a super-connected organism.

The show premiered at CNDB in late autumn 2022 and is now part of the CNDB current season, touring nationally and internationally. Simona Deaconescu and Vanessa Goodman are in a continuous process of developing BLOT. More than a performance or an installation, BLOT is a choreographic project that is constantly updating.

THE MAKERS

Concept and choreography Simona Deaconescu, Vanessa Goodman

Performers Simona Dabija, Maria Luiza Dimulescu

Artistic consultants Olivia Nițiș, Marta de Menezes

Music Monocube

Object design Ciprian Ciuclea, Paula Viitanen, Juan Carlos Aldazosa Bazua 

Light design Marius Costache, Alexandros Raptis, James Proudfoot

Assistant choreographer Georgeta Corca

Production Laura Trocan, Andreea Andrei

Graphic design PRETTY/UGLY DESIGN

PREMIERE

Oct 2022 -> The National Centre for Dance in Bucharest (RO)

PRODUCERS AND SPONSORS

produced by TANGAJ COLLECTIVE, ACTION AT A DISTANCE, The National Center for Dance Bucharest | co-financed by THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE NATIONAL CULTURAL FUND ROMANIA, CANADA COUNCIL FOR THE ART | supported by Cultivamos Cultura, in the frame of Biofriction | presented by Left of Main, Plastic Orchid Factory 

*The project does not necessarily represent the position of the Administration of the National Cultural Fund. AFCN is not responsible for the project’s content or how the project results can be used. These are entirely the responsibility of the beneficiary of the financing.

PHOTOS
PERFORMED BY SIMONA DEACONESCU AND VANESSA GOODMAN
PERFORMED BY MARIA LUIZA DIMULESCU AND SIMONA DABIJA
TRAILERS
PERFORMED BY SIMONA DEACONESCU AND VANESSA GOODMAN

PERFORMED BY MARIA LUIZA DIMULESCU AND SIMONA DABIJA