How to Become a Performance Artist

Performance art is a conceptual art form characterized by unpredictability and unconventional artistic expression. The performance artist engages his audience through creative use of his body and mind. Due to its abstract nature, becoming a performance artist doesn't require formal training in the arts. Read on to learn more about becoming a performance artist.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Understand the art form. Performance artistry is a fleeting expression of creativity and doesn't have recurring themes. Study well-known performance artists to gain insight into the abstract art form. Also examine the roots of the movement.

2. Cultivate your art form. Remember that performance art is an undefined expression of creativity and can take on almost any form. From music to dance, define your mode of performance artistry and practice your act.

3. Develop your performance artist persona. The more colorful your stage persona, the better. You want to capture and engage your audience, so creating an interesting stage presence is key.

4. Find a venue and audience. Many nightclubs, theaters, art galleries and performing arts centers host events and shows. Find potential venues in your town and inquire about booking a show.

5. Keep your performance brief. Acts shouldn't go on for longer than 15 to 30 minutes.

6. Minimize the number of props in your act. Your performance should mainly rely on you and your audience only.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the sidewalk your venue. Ambitious aspiring performance artists don't need an organized event to display their art form. Standing outside engaging in your act is an easy way to exhibit your art.
• Contact coffee houses for information on how to book a show. Many host poetry readings where you could perform your act.
• If your uncomfortable taking the stage by yourself, consider collaboration with other artists. Group performances take all the attention off of you.
• Know that anyone can be a performance artist. If you have something to say, merely saying it to an audience is a form of performance artistry. Don't be discouraged if you aren't a painter, dancer or sculptor. Your mind qualifies you to be a performance artist.
• Don't expect everyone to understand and accept your artistry. You might be ridiculed, mocked or booed during your performance due to it's avant-garde nature.
• If you choose to make a public area your performance space, make sure you aren't violating the law. Obey signs and postings in the area as business owners might not approve of such activity taking place outside their store.

Resources

• The 10 key elements of performance art.

[BrokenGirl]

on 3/3/2008 Darling- it isn't that easy to one's sho have never done it before.... It comes easy to me because I am an old pro.... which sounds like you are, I'd love to see some of your sometime...