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Public nudity is strictly forbidden in China, including in artistic contexts. In this performance, Jared Mimm and I completely removed our clothing in a crowded rock venue in Shanghai, aware of the cultural and legal risks. We anticipated discomfort, resistance, or even repercussions such as arrest or physical disrespect.
Lying on a table in the center of the crowd, I began slowly removing my clothing beneath a sheet until I was completely naked. Jared followed, and we laid on two separate tables side-by-side motionless. A heavy tension filled the space as the cultural taboo lingered in the air. The possibility of exposure or confrontation felt imminent and real.
After a time, a few men lifted the sheep, briefly, exposing my body. But unexpectedly, others in the crowd quickly, pulled the sheet back down to restore modesty. This interplay between discomfort and care became central to the work's meaning.
Then three women approached. They moved my legs and I felt like I was being exposed or bound. Then I realized they were very gently dressing me careful to preserve modesty with the sheet. Their actions were deliberate, gentle, and filled with compassion. They handled my body with incredible care as it moved by something deeper than discomfort. Soon the crowd gathered to dress Jared with the same tenderness and cooperation.
This performance, born from expectations of resistance and confrontation, unfolded into something entirely unexpected. It became a meditation on vulnerability, cultural boundaries, and the capacity for collective care. The tenderness shown in this moment of broken taboo nearly brought me to tears.
Photos Koshi
Mao Live House, Shanghai China
2018
