ONION SOUP
05.2022
In collaboration with
Eva ten Have,
Joost van Doorn
,
Semmi Oudejans,
Sarah Zwerus, Flora Lamy
Onion soup is a performance score that by the process of following a soup recipe takes you on a journey of unfolding your true self. The exercise requires a group of 3-6 people, a pile of raw onions, and a lot of talking.
academic project
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ABSTRACT
Humans instinctively shield themselves when exposed, concealing vulnerabilities behind layers of clothes, masks, and emotional walls. The societal norm of hiding physical and emotional vulnerability prompts reflection on whether there truly is a core to protect.
Rather than an innate essence, perhaps our selves are constructed by societal norms, as suggested by Foucault. The discomfort of unveiling may be a self-imposed construct, and the pursuit of an authentic inner self could be an illusion.
Exploring the idea of exposing oneself without overt recognition, we contemplate using various 'masks' as a gentle approach to openness. Creating connections through light-hearted situations, infused with humor and distraction, offers a pathway to shared vulnerability without direct confrontation.
In an experiment, we engage in an unconventional act: peeling onions while discussing typically concealed emotions. The exposure remains, yet the act of unmasking emotions is veiled by the commonplace task. The question arises: Do tears fall from the onions or from the emotions within?
STEPS:
1. Find 5 people to make a group of 6
2. Find a private space and dim the lights
3. Collect the onions
4. Peel and shred the onions into right sizes without using tools
5. The peeling might cause some crying, don't wipe away the tears
6. Keep peeling until there is nothing left unpeeled. What did the peeling reveal? Is there a core?
7. Decide what to keep and what to throw out, pay attention to any leftovers. What layers did you go through?
8. Find a pan, put everything in and let it simmer for a while
9. Enjoy the soup together
