Performance

Obelix Nutrix takes the figure of the nurse to look closer at the intricacies of care, interdependence and power. Through language, a soundscape and strong visuality, the performance ponders on the ethics of care, an ethic committed to universal provision for human needs, regardless of nationality, skin color or social status. Obelix Nutrix draws loose inspiration from Florence Nightingale and her foundational role in modern nursing using the historical figure and her legacy as an archetype.

In times of ongoing armed conflicts and genocide, growing compassion fatigue and the omnipresence of images of suffering, Nowak delves into deep exploration of the question of how care can be distinguished from paternalism, control or savior complex. Interweaving historical and futuristic elements, Obelix Nutrix also approaches the realm of Artificial Intelligence and digital health technologies and arrives at the ultra-contemporary question: How will we care for each other in the metaverse?

Ania Nowak approaches vulnerability and desire as ways towards reimagining what bodies and language can and cannot do. Nowak develops formats such as live and video performance, installation and text. In her practice, she engages with bodies in their nonlinear feeling and thinking capacity to tackle the difficulties of companionship and care in times of perpetual crisis. Nowak lives and works in Berlin.

Concept, choreography, performance: Ania Nowak


Sound: Justyna Stasiowska


Costume: Maldoror

Outside Eye: Julia Plawgo

Text: Ania Nowak with inserts from Anne Boyer, rupi kaur, Antigone Samellas


A production by Ania Nowak. Commissioned and produced by Salzburger Kunstverein. Co-financed by the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, Republic of Poland.