PuShy Questions with Mike Bourscheid from Idealverein

January 20, 2020

Mike Bourscheid is the director and maker of Idealverein, showing at Western Front from January 31-February 2. Click here for tickets and more show information.

1) What motivates your work as an artist?

Through my work, I have an interest in the re-ordering of class distinctions, dance history, gender roles and quirky understandings of social structures. Sometimes the only way to express yourself honestly in a conservative environment is through the guise of humor.

2) What does being part of PuSh 2020 represent for you?

I am very excited to be part of PuSh and connecting.

3) Is there anything you want audiences to keep in mind while experiencing your show?

Just be present.

4) How might we see PuSh 2020 themes of subversion or vulnerability reflected in the work?

Being a 6 ft 4 tall white male person, it is very important and necessary for me to show vulnerability in my work, especially when my body is involved through performance.

5) What other PuSh show would you most like to see?

I will try to see as many as possible. PuSh offers a large variety of shows so the potential of being surprised is very exciting.

6) What qualities do you most admire in other artists?

Inclusivity and respect for others.

7) Any advice for emerging artists?

Work work work, be nice to other people.

8) What do you do when you’re not working or making art?

Spending time with my partner, chores, reading, watching Project Runway.

9) What about Vancouver most entices you?

Vancouver is an amazing pool of very talented and creative people. Collaborations in Vancouver always make me feel that way.

10) What is your biggest art-making wish or fantasy (if money were no object)?

Money is always an object. I would love to collaborate with a fashion designer on a haute couture collection and I would love to make a feature length film in collaboration with an opera house.

Click here for Idealverein tickets and more show information.

Mike Bourscheid’s work blurs the lines between design, sculpture and performance; he’s given to expressing gender fluidity and sending up macho, patriarchal norms. He has had the honour of representing Luxembourg at the Venice Biennale, and he has presented his work in the USA, Germany, Canada and elsewhere across the globe.

— (Rehearsal photo by Gil Goletski)
— (Show photo by Luke Andrew Walker)