In response to the turbulence of contemporary times, Piano Portraits was conceived as a form of public art medicine, offering connection, understanding, and warmth. As Linda Mary Montano stated, “During these dangerous/confusing/armageddonned times, we are all looking for connection, understanding, and warmth. The three of us are committed to providing public art medicine. ART=LIFE=ART.”

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At HiLo in Catskill, NY, audience members were invited to become collaborators by sitting onstage to receive a public art healing. Montano improvised individual piano portraits, Nina Isabelle interpreted participants through movement and action, and Jennifer Zackin engaged in knot-tying rituals. Using elements such as knots and rope, sunglasses, costumes, blindfolds, movement, and sound, the performance became an interactive experience of collective healing. Piano Portraits embodied the belief that art has the power to transform and heal—both publicly and personally.

 

Performance documentation photos by Adolfo Ibáñez Ayerve
Event photo by Carrie Dashow