A Body Which Draws Itself

In the live performance "A Body Which Draws Itself," Rustichelli orchestrated a mesmerising exploration of endurance, pushing the boundaries of the corporeal form in a daring display of artistic expression. Bound in knots, the artist embarked on a journey to test the very limits of the body's ability to create. As Rustichelli transformed into a human paintbrush before our eyes, their movements became a symphony of visual poetry, each stroke on the canvas a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Accompanied by the ethereal compositions of musician James Halloran, the performance transcended mere spectacle, delving deep into the existential abyss. What began as a nod to Da Vinci's iconic Vitruvian Man swiftly evolved into a poignant exploration of abstract expressionism, weaving together themes of existential angst and absurdist philosophy. Rustichelli's struggle with the paintbrushes tethered to their body served as a powerful metaphor for the human condition, a poignant reminder of our inherent frailty in the face of existence's relentless tide.

As observers, we were drawn into Rustichelli's world, grappling with our own sense of powerlessness in the face of their unwavering artistic pursuit. In seamlessly blending visual arts, contemporary dance, and music, Rustichelli and Halloran crafted an immersive experience that transcended the boundaries of traditional performance.

In addition to the mesmerising performance of "A Body Which Draws Itself," Rustichelli's "Demon Rhythm" introduced a series of small canvas works that added another layer of depth to the evening's exploration. Each canvas was a unique entity, yet collectively they formed a thematic tapestry of diverse imagery. From provocative depictions of drag performers to sexually charged scenes, from internet memes to dark humour, Rustichelli's canvases captured a spectrum of human experience. Through this array of visual narratives, the artist delved into the complexities of contemporary culture, inviting viewers to confront societal taboos and norms. The juxtaposition of these disparate yet interconnected images served to further underscore Rustichelli's thematic exploration of selfhood, identity, and the human condition, enriching the overall artistic experience.

In its entirety, this double bill served as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of art, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of introspection and discovery. Rustichelli's masterful command of the medium left an indelible impression, reaffirming Metro Arts' status as a crucible of innovation and artistic excellence.

Kitty Goodall

Photo credit: Lachlan Douglas / someFX @somefx