The exhibition, which began as preliminary research and forms part of my dissertation, has now moved into a phase of accelerated realisation. As a result, it may no longer take the form I originally envisioned. The dragon has been cancelled. The white costumes will no longer be white. Moreover, our performance is no longer welcomed in proximity to the hotel.
What was intended as a unified, complete event is now unfolding in a fragmented way. The dragon and the chickens are not allowed to remain; the reason given was fear — explicitly described as superstition. The new frames, which so beautifully supported the dragon in a suspended position, are now being sent into storage.
These developments are difficult. On the other hand, the paintings for the exhibition are finished, and I now need to move into the sketching phase. However, the contract signing is being delayed, and there is a possibility it may not be signed at all. If that happens, I will begin again — writing to more suitable spaces and searching for alternative venues for the exhibition.
At the same time, we held the first rehearsal of the performance.
Event link: https://www.artweek.sg/event-detail/Threads-of-Time)
The costumes are almost complete and fully assembled, though they will not be white. White, I have realised, is a very strong colour. This became clear when I dressed Alice in the fully finished costume. The costumes will need to be recoloured. The masks are ready; the dresses and trousers are finished. What remains is to make the red pompoms and to braid the red thread that will wrap around the golden egg.
Next week, I will travel to meet my dissertation supervisor. I will bring my progress report and the preliminary dissertation plan.