As an artist new to Washington D.C., being a part of the Blowout Performance Art Festival at Hillyer Art Space was a unique opportunity for me not only to perform but also to experience the thriving art scene in the District. I found the performances varied in style and craft from performer to performer, creating an interesting mix of engaging performances. The opportunity to perform and interact with audience members throughout the day created an intimate atmosphere and a collective experience not often felt at art events.
Artist Paul Shortt performed “The Car My Father Gave Me” at Blowout, DC Performance Art Festival on June 16, 2012. Paul’s piece was at the end of the day, and he was one of the few people to see almost every performance. “The Car My Father Gave Me” (youtube) is a performance like a lecture, incorporating a powerpoint presentation. The work is a slideshow through different cars in Paul’s life and explores his relationship through cars with this father- ending in playing a recording made in the car while his father taught him to drive stick shift.
Paul will be performing in August Soapbox with Sam Scharff- August, 17 2012!
