This is a drop in event. BSL interpreted

Presented in city centre shopping areas, Demonstrating the World takes the form of a durational public performance disguised as an everyday consumerist demo.

In Demonstrating the World, Aaron Williamson explores the ‘alien’ or ‘other’ through an absurdly elaborate, live reinterpretation of YouTube ‘How-To’ videos. Drawing from this contemporary archive of ‘folk performance’, Williamson enacts everyday tasks such as opening a cupboard, removing a jacket, or sitting on a chair, with detailed step-by-step instructions. He illustrates the required posture, hand-shapes and describes the shifting of muscular tension – both reinforcing and destabilising their apparent familiarity.

Demonstrating the World is presented on a purpose-built mobile performance platform that houses a radically displaced domestic interior, designed in collaboration with architect Ida Martin. Separated from their expected practical function, this unique series of household objects provides an opportunity to demonstrate the sculptural qualities of ergonomic design.

Fierce Says: Aaron is a legend of UK Performance Art. This piece sees him at his absurd best in a preposterous demonstration of the most mundane things. We first saw him try this piece out in a car park in Hackney stood on a chair with a 7 foot high microphone. It’s boring as hell, but bet you £5 you’ll get engrossed for much longer than intended.

Supported by Unlimited with funding from Arts Council England, Creative Scotland, Arts Council Wales and Spirit of 2012.