This piece came out of an abstract request from my mentor Joyce Neimanas, a voice mail left on my cell, and conversations about the ‘Rules in Relationships” among other artists.

This work was exhibited as both a time based installation, and a sound performance with Artist Richard Curtis at the Roger Brown Collection in Chicago, Il.

The following text is what is hidden beneath the rose petals and pins. The text would reveal itself as the facade of flowers withered and died over the course of the install.

Aug 22nd, 3:17am

You will not make eye contact when other people are around never under any circumstances touch me in public no blushing, no idle chitchat longer than twenty minutes wear mildly suggestive clothing topic of conversation will not include discussion of our relationship or bad person nations, but may include politics, whether or other dry subject matter we will never meet each other‘s parents, families, or share friends do not act smarter than you are do not bring up juvenile fears of rejection do not use your brain during sex do not you not question my judgment I am not yours you are not mine do not fall in love with me, or the idea of me and I will do the same this is not a relationship this is a situation surprises and Hallmark cards are off-limits there will be no photographs no dancing never comment on my smoking or other destructive behaviors only to mint flavored gum if you mention me to your mother or your analyst it is over I do not repeat answers you will not email me pictures or erotic stories no spanking you could never borrow money or books from me stay Away from my toothbrush you were not getting keys this is a convenience situation organizing counter such as dates are not included you will not leave messages on my machine or handwritten notes with hearts you are not my type and never will be so stop trying do not compare me to other people you will be on time and not confide in me or ask for advice no overnights or unexpected visits no, clinging no favors new handholding there will be no third-party drama of an ex or love triangle I do not want to get to know you better there’s nothing symbolic about this nor will there be.