ORIGIN

This work is part of the company’s core repertoire, which since 1995 has explored the consequences of human intervention on nature and on the body itself.

Bi-KA is part of the 2010 trilogy that also includes KET-SUi (“The Decision”) and UN-MEi (“Destiny”), works that explore different aspects of the contemporary human condition through Japanese concepts translated into the Western context.

The performance is part of Ten Pen Chii’s line of research into the unforeseen consequences of human intervention, both on nature and on the body itself.

CONCEPT

The term Bi-KA is Japanese and means “improvement” or “beautification”. The performance addresses the theme of the obsession with beauty and the cult of the body in contemporary society. To be beautiful, attractive, fit… so reads the modern wish list for a seemingly fulfilled life. Success and outward appearance seem to be closely related.

Aesthetic norms that symbolize eternal youth become guiding motifs. Although researchers cannot promise us a true eternal youth, many people do not want to wait until then and try to change their appearance with today’s possibilities. They dig deep into their pockets and entire industries live off it.

Cosmetic surgeries, skin lifts, breast and penis implants, genetic manipulation, anti-ageing pills, supernatural bodybuilding, botox injections and so-called dietary supplements generate millions for the cosmetic, pharmaceutical and beauty industries. The risks of these interventions are minimized and the impression arises that everything is possible without complications.