Post 7-Samuel Mbila

 Performance, Pedagogy, and Philosophy (Interview with Shaun Leonardo)

1."But for Leonardo, the act of experiencing a space, memory, or feeling is simultaneously an opportunity to reflect, meditate, and explore."

I completely agree with this view. This is why I enjoy films so much in particular, as watching certain stories, especially relatable ones, allows for people to reflect on their past and determine how best they can shape their future.

2."I offer that narrative with the recognition that, over my life and professional career, I have witnessed young people be easily derailed when they don’t see themselves in the representation of who is creating."

I've seen many people my age become disillusioned and discouraged when it comes to pursuing their goals because of the kind discriminatory world we live in. However, despite the hate and disdain such people, especially those of color such as myself, face and witness, we musn't give up. I believe that once I put my mind into achieving any goal, God will help me throught it regardless of those who attempt to bring my downfall.

The Art of Activism

1."But culture is complicated. It’s a word so commonly used that it’s hard to nail down exactly what it is."

This statement is true, as people of various backgrounds or groups behave in questionable or harmful ways, claiming they do what they do because it's "their culture". Is what they're doing truly because of culture, or is it an excuse they use to mistreat others/one another?

2."Culture surrounds us: it’s the material from which we create our lives and make sense of our world. It’s this defnition that people like anthropologists, sociologists, and marketers use."

I agree with this definition. As an African American of Nigerian descent, shaping my views around the struggles/experiences of both Blacks and native Nigerians has allowed me to make sense of my own identity and existence. In other words, engrossing myself in these two distinct yet similiar cultures has broadened my understanding and been helpful in the long-run.

Performance Piece Title/Description: My performance piece, dubbed "The Art of Conversation", is exactly what it sounds like: a piece focused on meaningful conversation and discussion between multiple parties. Somewhat inspired by Abramovic's The Artist Is Present, the piece allows for people to simply discuss anything with me, the artist. If the person discussing with me would like to invite one or more people to the conversation, that's fine as well. The goal of the piece is to emphasize the importance of simply talking with one another. I feel that our world wouldn't be so violent and cruel if people simply spoke with each other, settling their differences with respect and kindness.

Performance Instructions/Script:

1. I, the artist, will set up two chairs side by side from one another.

2.Whoever in the audience/class that would like to speak can come forward. I will not be calling on anyone specific to come and speak with me. Think of this as a "first come, first served" situation.

3.As the person speaks with me, they can invite anyone else within the audience to join our conversation. Preferably, no more than 2 people should be joining.

4.The discussions I'll be having with people will be timed. After 20 minutes, the discussion ends. Audience members should not feel bothered by this, as the discussion does not have to be that long. Our conversation ending before time runs out is completely fine.