The concept of the human hamster wheel is revisited by performance artists in Brooklyn.
Ward Shelley and Alex Schweder have chosen to live for 10 days in a devised space that looks like a giant hamster wheel. The performance is called “In Orbit.” It is taking place at The Boiler, a performance space in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn.
According to the Associated Press, Schweder said from inside of the wheel, "It's really an exploration of what it means to collaborate. It's an exploration of trust between two people."
Set apart 180 degrees from each other, they have to coordinate their movements. The designed wheel is 60 feet in circumference. Their space includes narrow beds, chairs, desks, a refrigerator, and a simple kitchen. The performance artists said that living in the hamster wheel is also a psychological exercise. Sleeping is a kind of refuge in the hamster wheel.
Spectators can view this piece of performance art. So far, a few have stopped by to look at “In Orbit.” Shelley and Schweder will be living in the hamster wheel of their making through March 9, according to the Gothamist.