For the Love of Dogs
Performances (Interactive)
For the third year in a row, I presented a one-on-one, face-to-face interactive performance for Valentine’s Day. In this particular case, I wanted to honor the deep connection between people and dogs. I was motivated by the suspicion that my own dog — Stella, the pitbull — was not long for this world. Indeed, she was euthanized a few months after my performance.
The set-up for this performance was simple. I spent a Sunday afternoon at a coffee shop in Tarrytown, NY. I asked participants to tell me about one dog that they had loved at some point in their lives. While listening to their heartfelt descriptions of a beloved pet, I created a special Valentine for the object of their affection. I also allowed them to pick a gift from a group of dog-themed items that had been provided by a company called Dog is Good.
I was touched by the emotions that were evoked by this project. So many people were brought to tears in recounting a dog tale. It was easy for me to empathize with these people. I get a lump in my throat when I think about my dear Stella!