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The Weepingmachine (II), performance by Leen Van Dommelen
07.12.2024 - 15:30
Performance-installation, 2024
Approximate duration: 1h30
The Weepingmachine is an ode to all people holding their tears, lost in tears or having no tears left to cry. A continuous stream of saline water flows into the performer’s eyes, blurring the line between real and induced tears. These tears are collected in a small bottle that, when full, is emptied into a suspended glass reservoir above the head. From there, two threads lead the tears back into the eyes - an (almost) endless loop.
The Weepingmachine is inspired by traditions from ancient societies, where professional mourners, often women, were skilled in the art of grieving to help communities express their sorrow — a practice that still exists in some cultures today. The performance also draws on the imagery of weeping Madonna sculptures, where oil or water is applied to create the illusion of the statue crying continuously.
Leen Van Dommelen previously exhibited at Centrale as part of Backstage Of The Body.
Photo: © Chris Bulte>