Tschabalala Self's Performance Piece Sounding Board Explores Figuration Through Theater
Artist Tschabalala Self created her first theatrical work, Sounding Board, as a commission for the Performa 2021 Biennial. The play, which examines a relationship conflict between two characters, was staged at the Jackie Robinson Park Bandshell in Harlem. Self, known primarily for paintings featuring mixed-media collage techniques, translated her visual aesthetic into three-dimensional form through sculptural furniture designs. The Cooper Hewitt museum holds related works including a lounge chair from the production and design drawings. The performance represents Self's exploration of figuration beyond two-dimensional media, connecting her painting practice to theatrical expression.
Key facts
- Tschabalala Self created her first play Sounding Board for Performa 2021 Biennial
- The performance was staged at Jackie Robinson Park Bandshell in Harlem
- Cooper Hewitt holds production furniture and design drawings in its collection
- Self's work bridges painting, sculpture, and performance through collage principles
Entities
Artists
Institutions
- Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
- Performa Biennial
Locations
- Harlem
- New York