Walk This Way

Today, another excursion. This time inside! We had traveled to Markham to visit Pacific Mall- North America's largest Chinese mall. I had been there a few times prior, but never with a mission. One of today's missions was to create a collection. I had a clear idea that I would take business cards from all the stores and restaurants. Some places did not offer so in the end I ended up with 49 business cards. I felt sort of awkward walking in the stores asking for a business card and just walking away. I got tired of repeating the same thing as well as I was sick so asking turned into just taking. They're free right? It was still very strange I do not think I have ever asked for business cards or even taken one unless the guy who helped me with my cell phone gave me his. I really enjoy my collection. Theres such a variety of patterns and colours and frankly, some are just cute.

The second objective of the day was to walk against the plan. Essentially this was to steer the visitors in a prescribed way. I would change a 'normal' behaviour and so would they. I would walk around the mall then take a seat. For this, I sat on the floor, with feet on the bench/chair. Some instances I sat beside someone. Some people would either stay, laugh or walk away. No one ever said anything.

Lastly, an action. A quick gesture, stunt or act. I really enjoy Erwin Wurm's work with 1 Minute sculptures. I had already planned this in advance and when I came across a chair missing a seat-I knew it would be perfect as it already had this wonderful sculptural form, and i would have it as an extension of myself.

Below an Interview with Erwin Wurm.

http://youtu.be/-y3RW9pwJfI

Our exersion was quite fun and I had accomplished what I wanted to this day. With time left over, I wondered around the mall and came across a sculpture. Not quite a 1 Minute sculpture this time. Maybe 5? But still wonderful to see. Three benches stacked in a walk-way. Confusion struck custodial staff and myself and a friend were 'accused' of doing this. Security asked us if we knew anything and in all honesty we did not. We walked away to see some friends having a tea party in one of the pathways. Apparently this is threatening dangerous behaviour and security broke up this riot. Our class had a talkin' to courtesy of one security guard who thought he was serving and protecting the public? Anyways we were escorted out to the mall in perfect timing with our bus waiting to take us back to the University.