Performance

Interpretations of Yoko Ono’s Grapefruit

A Weekend of Performances by Jimmy Robert’s Class

Close-up of several people lying on a staircase and touching each other. There are no faces to be seen.

Students of Jimmy Robert’s Class © Elena Herrmann

In 1964, Yoko Ono published more than 200 instructions in her book Grapefruit. Jimmy Robert’s class at the Berlin University of the Arts will present their own interpretations of Ono’s instructions over the first weekend in May at Gropius Bau.

You can find an overview of all performances, including start times and a site map, in the event map. Downloadmap

Ono’s instructions compiled in Grapefruit were written between 1953 and 1964 and convey her ideas during this period. The book is considered one of her foundational texts and a cornerstone of conceptual art. Ono’s instructions can be performed by anyone. Many of them have been realised as physical artworks, through performance, participation, film, painting and sculpture. Others are intended to be carried out entirely in the mind.

The grapefruit is a recurring motif for Ono. To her, the fruit is a hybrid between an orange and a lemon and represents “East and West, the two cultures in my life.”

Performers: Alina Amer, Ben Behrends, Noano El-Metwally, Sarah Estio, Shiwa Ghanbari, Elena Herrmann, Eva Ingver, Alexandra Ittner, Jiwoo Lee, Jusun Lee, Jared Marks, Bea Mensing, Holly Mia, Hans Ali, Reetta Nummi, Abiye Okujagu, Almitra Pyritidis, Sol, Ella Bliss Walker

The project is conceptually accompanied by Sandhya Daemgen and Douglas Boatwright under the direction of Jimmy Robert. 

Image Gallery

During the event, photographs and video recordings may be made in which you may be recognisable. By attending, you consent to these recordings being used to communicate the event or exhibition.