It just so happens that my love was here visiting when we were assigned this project. I was stuck without an idea, but thankfully as we sat together, we developed a concept for a performance art piece that challenges the norms within relationships.
We realize that as a college aged couple we are subject to societal pressures of roles within a relationship. We have chosen to challenge these roles and redefine what is true loyalty is, its purpose, and ultimately how unconditional love in relationships is the best guide.
Loving conditionally is an unspoken rule throughout our age group. Noting the freedom and obvious attraction levels on college campuses it is essentially a breeding ground for fu**ing, flirting, cheating, and for some, control, if you are in a relationship.
We are supposed to be able to control the natural attractions of our mates, or better yet, completely stop them. "He only has eyes for me". The conditions of relationships, and the power roles are often the cause for many issues.
The rules of long distance relationships can be even more specific and detailed, and some may feel constricted.
The performance piece offers a way of understanding Unconditional Love. Love where each person is in control of themselves and their own actions, completely trusting the other to respect the freedom and trust given.
We highlight the emotions generated when a couple holds a focus for loving unconditionally. There is release on the leash of the lover and at the times, a complete letting go of the leash, i.e the tools of control and the conditions of love.
By maintaining a healthy relationship while feeling the growing pains of infidelity we explore the necessary attitudes for loving unconditionally. Ultimately in throughout this love, there is an opportunity to wipe away the preexisting conditions and to develop a more personalized relationship structure.
