no, tell me, 2019
installation and performance in the Grand Terminus Hotel in Bergen, NO, with video by artist titled paint to dry (2019), package of cinnamon gum (12 pieces), pink and pearl iridescent body paint and makeup, hotel robe and slippers, and velvet socks
video duration: 3 hours
performance duration: 3 hours

The entire fifth floor of the hotel was ours. Each of the 39 artists received our own little room to sleep and bathe and lounge and perform in. For no, tell me (2019), I decided to do what I always do in hotel rooms: I watched television. When guests came through, I would invite them to "watch paint dry with me," and every fifteen minutes I would add another piece of cinnamon gum to my aching gob. 

The first day of the festival, the video was riveting. I was constantly surprised, and on the edge of my seat. The second day of the festival was scrutinous. I focused on the little details and revelled in the rewatching. I even permitted myself to rewind and fast-forward, to show those passing through the good parts they had "just missed." Besides talking about paint drying, my visitors and I discussed home repair, damage deposits, gum flavours, and other existential anxieties.

Performed at the Grand Terminus Hotel in Bergen, NO from October 5 - 6, 2019, for the performance festival "PAB - OPEN".
Photos: Jane Sverd
Travel funded by: The Canada Council for the Arts