Durational performance at 10+ (the 10th anniversary of the founding of Nhà sàn Studio, 2008).

Description

The performance is a critique of commemorative practices. It is akin to a ritual for self-worship. Commemorative ceremonies are generally organized with added significance at the 5- or 10-year anniversary, but they can take place in periods counted by years and days as well, as is the case for memorial rites (for the deceased).

In the Performance, Nguyễn Minh Phước showed up in a gaudy costume and shades, a chicken in his arms and a rose in his mouth, similar to the boiled chicken with a rose clutched in its beak as part of the offerings in traditional Vietnamese rituals. To attend a commemorative ceremony in pretty clothes and with a rose clutched in one’s mouth is to evoke the image of guests in flashy clothes and speaking decorative language. Yet, the performer appeared in shades as if he were blind, tucking a glistening chicken close, pondering: Are people interested in me or the chicken?

Description by ViAA based on materials provided by the artist.