Jakarta-based artists Tita Salina (b. 1973) and Irwan Ahmett (b. 1975) present Urban Play–Playing Data, a four-part performance and the culmination of their one-month residency in Boston. The performance incorporates objects and information collected by the artists over the course of their residency, and takes place outdoors on the MFA's campus.
Generated through exploration of neighborhoods near the Museum and collaboration with individauls and community organiztions based in the area, this performance addresses local spaces, groups, and issues that are neglected or taken for granted. Salina and Ahmett have staged Urban Play in seven cities across Asia and Europe to date. This new iteration of the series is the first time it comes to the United States. This event took place on July 8, 2016, a Free Fun Friday sponsored by the Highland Street Foundation. It was part of the exhibition "Megacities Asia," April 3, 2016–July 17, 2016
Urban Play–Playing Data includes four participatory events taking place over the course of the afternoon:
- Emo Tree | 12:30–3 pm, Huntington Avenue Entrance and lawn
Track emotions over the course of the day with flowers. Drop in any time to participate. - Fused Census | 1–2 pm, Fenway Entrance and lawn
Build a work of art together inspired by public sculpture in Boston. Final work will be unveiled in the Calderwood Courtyard at 3:30 pm. - Mile-Pole | 2–2:30 pm, Huntington Avenue Entrance and lawn
Plot how far you traveled to get to the MFA. Participation limited to first 30 visitors; all are welcome to watch. - Eat the Wish | 3–4 pm, Calderwood Courtyard
Celebrate, eat cake, and compare your birthday wishes to others. First come, first served.