Tania Candiani

Pico de gallo sonoro (Pico de gallo sonorous) is an action that initially was presented within the Pre-Premier program of the independent art space Obrera Centro. Pre-Premier consists of critical analysis meetings about contemporary production. In each session the audience sees the process of the project, a delicious homemade dinner it is served, and after a discussion about the project, it’s open.
This action responds to a concern about how the video record modifies or restates performative pieces with the public — the relevance or not of files for certain types of actions and their possible ramifications.
The piece consists of chopping the ingredients for a Mexican sauce called “pico de gallo” (cilantro, onion, tomato, and chili) and is based on simple instructions that must be met by the performers: chop each one an ingredient, use their knife rhythmically, retire when the element is ready.
The four “taquero” boards have a microphone to amplify the sound of the knife. The aroma is a surprise element during the action. The duration depends on the readiness of the cutlers.