Set against the vibrant backdrop of Los Angeles’ Arts District, "The Artist in the Window Would Like to Know" emerges where the artistic essence and the city’s communal heartbeat converge. At my studio residency in ArtShareLA, sunlight floods through a grand, arched window, illuminating my daily art practice. This window transforms into a welcoming portal, drawing passersby into a realm of mutual curiosity and dialogue.

The adventure began with curiosity, sparked when a street-art walking tour unexpectedly halted by my window. As I worked on a vibrant mobile piece, their impromptu visit—a flurry of questions about my artistic process—transformed from a potential interruption into an enriching exchange. The unexpected inquiry, both surprising and fresh, led to profound introspection. It felt as though these strangers, momentarily connected by their fascination, sought connections to their own playful curiosities or the nostalgic joy of childhood art-making. Their questions were like sharing personal secrets or seeking affirmation within a trusted safe space/enclave.

Deliberately distancing myself from the superficiality of small talk, fully aware of its social intricacies yet finding it discomforting, this fleeting communal interaction inspired a deeper inquiry: Could this serendipitous fleeting encounter evolve into a deliberate art practice aimed at nurturing interactive, meaningful communal dialogue? This question heralded the start of an experimental odyssey into connection, presence, and enlightening conversation. As a neurodivergent artist, the quest to balance solitude and engagement is crucial for my well-being, fueling the exploration that characterizes this ongoing interactive performance art project.

Performance &

The Mechanics of Engagement

The Grand Arched Window: This architectural feature transforms from a physical barrier into a gateway of possibilities, blending the intimate space of artistic creation with the dynamic public sphere. It stands as a testament to the project's core intent: inviting the outside world into a dialogue that transcends the ordinary.

Written Prompts: Passersby encounter thought-provoking questions displayed through the window—each designed to inspire introspection and encourage a sharing of personal insights. These prompts, ranging from reflections on personal growth to existential musings, are the seeds from which rich dialogues bloom.

Proximity and Interaction: The strategic existence of the window close to the sidewalk directly facilitates an array of interactions. This deliberate closeness breaks down barriers, enabling immediate and varied exchanges that underscore the project's essence: creating a space for genuine connection.

Foundations and Inspirations

Interdisciplinary Research: Drawing upon the rich fields of philosophy, psychology, mindfulness, and the lived experience of neurodivergence, "The Artist Would Like to Know" is informed by intellectual and experiential inquiries. This foundation not only enriches the project's depth but also guides its execution, making each interaction a moment of shared discovery.

A Neurodivergent Lens: My journey as a neurodivergent artist deeply influences the project's trajectory. It brings a unique perspective to the exploration of human interaction, highlighting the value of diverse cognitive experiences in shaping our connections and understanding of the world.

A Journey of Discoveries

Varied Interactions: The project has unfolded a rich spectrum of human emotion and connection, from brief shouts to deep conversations. Each engagement adds to a collective narrative, offering glimpses into the varied ways individuals navigate and interpret their experiences.

Insights and Surprises: Navigating this experiment has revealed the unexpected beauty in moments of disruption, transforming perceived distractions into opportunities for insight. These encounters, often laden with surprises, have enriched the dialogue between myself and the community, fostering a space of mutual growth and understanding.

The Art of Inquiry: Inquiry within this project transcends mere conversation; it becomes an art form that invites depth and authenticity. The initial anonymity of the artist—myself—prioritizes the purity of the exchange, allowing participants to engage with the questions on a personal level before the artist's presence is fully revealed. This dynamic fosters an environment where dialogue can unfold in its most genuine form, highlighting the transformative power of listening and the unexpected paths it can lead us down.

Moving Forward

"The Artist Would Like to Know" is an evolving exploration of the ways interactive performance art can facilitate deep, meaningful connections across the unseen divides that separate us. It stands as a living inquiry, continually adapting and growing with each new interaction and insight.

Through the simple act of asking and the present art of listening, "The Artist Would Like to Know" builds bridges over the chasms of isolation, celebrating the unpredictable and diversity of human interaction. This text serves as a documentation of the journey thus far and also as an extended open invitation to future participants and observers to join in this shared exploration of presence, connection, and the beautifully unexpected encounters that define our shared human experience.