“A Public Cleansing” is a three hour long public performance that addresses the challenges of the American health care system. During the piece, I was cleansing hospital gowns that I collected during my cancer treatment or that were donated to me by health care professionals and recovered COVID-19 patients. Four of the gowns had U.S. state mottos sewed on them. The piece was located on 14th street and 6th avenue, between two subway exits. The public’s reactions varied; some stopped to experience the piece, some took photos, others passed by giving me a look and made facial expressions of surprise, wonder and empathy. Vulnerability was a central element of the work. The vulnerability of the body and the individual against viruses, diseases and chaotic, impersonal cities like New York City.
Documentation by Petros Lales
Press
