Performance at Oude Markt, Enschede, the Netherlands: Organized by ARE Artist Residencies Enschede (June 2018)
Photo: Marie Janin
Performers: Ieke Trinks, Louisa Kistemaker, Karina Rodak, Hanan Klei, Christina Takayama, Laura Goldberg
Sound: Daniel Konar
Video documentation: aroundAnnebel
Why do we need to be happy? Is happiness a choice? Will happiness take us further?
From Aristotle to positive psychology, we unceasingly create missions and visions to improve our mental health and well-being. However, our current preoccupation with seeking happiness is as downhearted as if we forever chase rainbows. Social media consumption undermines normative images of happiness and plays important role in increasing fear of sadness and failure. Corporations expect us to be happy for the benefit of their productivity. Joy marketing constantly stimulates us to buy more products with inspirational life quotes...
“PERFECT HAPPINESS” is a parade performance to reclaim our perception of happiness and to protest against the commercial exploitation of individual happiness. A group of performers walks together in a shopping district in Enschede with placards declaring freedom OF happiness.
