How Toys Become Real is the alternative title to the children’s book The Velveteen Rabbit. Over time the rabbit learns that genuine love is unconditional and timeless. It is real love that transforms the stuffed animal from a toy to a living rabbit.
This installation and performance, titled How to Become Real approaches the search for genuine love from the context of a romantic relationship. The story is conveyed from the perspective of a partner who felt transformed into the relationship workhorse.
Workhorses are psychologically trained. They struggle to meet the perceived expectations of their partner in hopes of enjoying a split second of affection. The infrequent award of affection drives the horse to perform variations on a successful routine in order to recapture a fleeting moment of love and companionship. Unfortunately, this specific horse performs a failing routine – exuding showmanship eroded by the effects of neglect and misunderstanding.
Amidst the tired routine, a moment of reflection allows the workhorse to finally acknowledge reality. At this moment the horse discovers through an action of self-love, one can transform from a workhorse into a real person once again.
How to Become Real Performance and Exhibition photographs taken by Joshua McDevitt