Wednesday, May 22, 2024

 Crossing Over 

Crossing Over: An Art Performance


Concept Overview:

"Crossing Over" refers, in its literal biological sense, to the exchange of genetic material during the formation of a fetus. Symbolically, the term extends far beyond science—capturing the profound internal transitions that occur when individuals move between cultures, geographies, and stages of life.


This performance explores the invisible yet transformative shifts experienced during travel and migration. While outward appearances may remain unchanged, the mind and spirit often undergo a quiet, powerful metamorphosis. The way one perceives the world is forever altered—subtle but irreversible.


In Indian tradition, women have long offered their hair in acts of devotion, shaving their heads at temples as a symbolic sacrifice and surrender. Drawing from this powerful ritual, the artists reimagine and appropriate the act of head shaving as a metaphor for transformation, passage, and rebirth. It becomes a gesture not of loss, but of crossing over—into new identities, new understandings.


Artists 

Chiman Dangi (India): Visual Artist – Printmaking, Performance & Installation

Meropi Mitrou (Greece): Visual Artist – Photography

Betsy Williamson (Canada): Visual Artist – Mixed Media


While each artist arrives in Udaipur with distinct roots—Chiman from a nearby village in Jodhpur, Rajasthan,  Meropi from Greece, and Betsy from USA—the city becomes a common ground, inspiring deep artistic and personal connection. Betsy, initially in Udaipur for the one-month Art Junction International Artist Residency in (Ambamata) now Badanga Udaipur chose to extend her stay, drawn in by the spirit of place and collaboration.


Performance Details:

Performers: Chiman Dangi and Betsy Williamson

Videography: Meropi Mitrou

Concept Development: Chiman Dangi, Meropi Mitrou, Betsy Williamson


Location: Daiji Footbridge, Udaipur, Rajasthan

Date & Time: Friday, 9 October 2015 | 5:45 PM



This performance is a meditative journey—a symbolic act of release, remembrance, and renewal—anchored in cross-cultural friendship and shared artistic intention.


















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