Performance

Interpretations of Yoko Ono’s Grapefruit

A Weekend of Performances by Jimmy Robert’s Class

In 1964, Yoko Ono published more than 200 instructions in her book Grapefruit. Jimmy Robert’s class at the Berlin University of the Arts will present their own interpretations of Ono’s instructions over the first weekend in May at Gropius Bau.

Ono’s instructions compiled in Grapefruit were written between 1953 and 1964 and convey her ideas during this period. The book is considered one of her foundational texts and a cornerstone of conceptual art. Ono’s instructions can be performed by anyone. Many of them have been realised as physical artworks, through performance, participation, film, painting and sculpture. Others are intended to be carried out entirely in the mind.

The grapefruit is a recurring motif for Ono. To her, the fruit is a hybrid between an orange and a lemon and represents “East and West, the two cultures in my life.”

Performers: Arwa Azzouz, Ben Behrends, Noano El-Metwally, Sarah Estio, Shiwa Ghanbari, Elena Herrmann, Eva Ingver, Alexandra Ittner, Luisa Krautien, Jiwoo Lee, Jusun Lee, Jared Marks, Bea Mensing, Holly Mia, Carmen Ng, Reetta Nummi, Abiye Okujagu, Almitra Pyritidis, Sol, Ella Bliss Walker

The project is conceptually accompanied by Sandhya Daemgen and Douglas Boatwright under the direction of Jimmy Robert.