Damians Dressing Table

The project Damians Dressing Table consists of an interactive installation and a performance. The goal of this project was to explore if through interactive technology the performer could feel more connected, both to themselves and the audience. During the performance drag artist Damian D. Doggy put on make-up to prepare for the drag performance. Damian D. Doggy is the drag persona of Danielle, owner of Awareness Lab.

The steps of the make-up proces (e.g. combing hair, "shaving", applying face paint) have been modified after extensive design research. They contribute to mind-states which, due to tension, normally are hard to experience prior to a performance. These modifications are the result of the somaesthetic design method which centres around the unity of body and mind.

The interactive objects on the table stimulate through sound, vibration and light attention to breathing, a sense of relaxation and wonder. Using the objects invites slow and gentle interaction which may evoke attention, care, calm and intimacy. The step-wise structure of the performance involves the audience in the transformation from Danielle to Damian.

This piece is realised in the context of the Soft Spaces project, a collaboration between Designmuseum Den Bosch and Drag Up Family. The performances took place at the Designmuseum. There the installation was on show during the Soft Spaces: Beyond the Glitter exhibition.

Shortened version of make-up performance:

Awareness Lab: concept, design, research, installation, performance.

In collaboration with: Designmuseum Den Bosch, Drag Up Family, Yamuna Forzani (textile artist).

Thanks to: Hans de Zwart (sound), Sanne Boersma (video), collegues Communicatie en Multimedia Design Avans Breda.

Project blog

Article (unpublished)