The Rule is Love

The Rule is Love #5 (A wake 1,313 km from the Sea), 2023

The Rule is Love is an ongoing series of performances in which the artist establishes a unique rule for both herself and the audience. In each of her performances, Grullón explores how situational actions, often utilizing her own body, enable participants to connect with profound human emotions such as fear, mourning, uncertainty, empathy, and care as part of their epistemic experiences. 

A wake 1,313 km from the Sea functioned as a vigil for the migrant lives being lost in the Mediterranean Sea due to climate change and political unrest caused by economic policies enacted by G20 nations. For the performance, Grullón, accompanied by two assistants,  held an unlit candle. She had her waist wrapped in a long blue piece of fabric reminiscent of the sea. Each of the ends were held by one of the assistants,who walked in sync with her.

The rule the artist established for herself and her assistants: Only walk if the candle is lit. 

The rule for the participants/audience: Light the candle, so she can continue walking to reach her destination. 

This event is part of “Archeology of Resistance: Corrective for Future” program that is curated by Iva Kovač.