Su Eko & The masks
'My Body is an Avatar'
The creation of an imaginary world
‘My Body is an Avatar’ is an interactive audiovisual performance that combines music, dance, sonography, performance art, visual arts, 3D environments and meditative concepts.
Inspired by the alchemical process of transformation, Su Eko brings to life seven imaginary characters. Each character is embodied through handmade paper-mâché masks and unconventional costumes, designed and created by the artist using recycled and alternative materials.
The performance unfolds through seven original songs, written and composed by Su Eko. Each song is performed by one of the seven characters, revealing moments of transformation, self-discovery and shifts in human consciousness.
The experience also incorporates dance and audience interaction. Accompanied by live visual projections, video scenography and real-time video mapping by Astronauta Mecânico, Su Eko creates an immersive dialogue between sound, image and movement.
Blending surrealist imagery with interactive audiovisual elements, the performance invites the audience into a dreamlike state of trance, opening a space for reflection, transformation and healing.
Make it Gold
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Wallpaper City Japan
Transforming Water Into Gold An Alchemical Reflection on Human Existence
Water symbolises emotional release, intuition and inner reflection. In alchemical traditions, it is associated with healing, purification and the body’s ability to adapt, repair and protect itself. Water is also connected to fear, surrender and the transformative cycle of life and death.
Amid the turbulence of both the natural world and the human psyche, this character emerges as a living storm. Dressed in a cloud-shaped costume, she embodies the fluid and ever-changing nature of water while reflecting the human capacity for transformation. Her presence becomes a metaphor for the alchemical process of turning water into gold—a symbolic journey from emotional uncertainty to inner wisdom.
The character’s dress represents the emotional landscape of humanity and the contrast between how people present themselves to the world and who they truly are beneath the surface.
The outer layer of the costume is soft and inviting, symbolising the image we share with others. Hidden inside is a protective metal cage, representing the fears, insecurities and vulnerabilities we often conceal in order to be accepted.
Accompanied by the song “Make It Gold”, the character invites the audience to embrace transformation. Drawing from the alchemical pursuit of turning base matter into gold, the performance explores the possibility of transforming emotional challenges into self-awareness, resilience and personal growth.
Mask: Paper Mache (flower, water), acrylic paint, black elastic.
Dress: Metal wire, spider webs
Umbrella Drops: Silver paper
Speed Time
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Illustration Art Mistake
The irreversible speed of time
collides with more than just egos
Air represents the mind, intellect and imagination. In alchemy, it is known as the breath of life and is associated with curiosity, communication, learning, vision and the limitless capacity of thought. It governs the realms of ideas, inspiration and awareness, while also reflecting humanity’s desire for freedom and exploration.
In “Speed Time”, the character explores the relationship between consciousness and time. The song reflects on how modern life often becomes consumed by speed, distraction and the endless pursuit of goals, while overlooking the only moment that truly exists: the present.
The costume symbolises the tension between confinement and liberation. A cage-like structure surrounds the character, representing the mental constructs, fears and limitations that shape human experience. Yet the open design suggests the possibility of breaking free and discovering a deeper sense of freedom.
The clocks incorporated into the costume reinforce the central theme of the performance: time as a human illusion. Their hands point only to the present moment, inviting the audience to reflect on the idea that the past exists only in memory and the future only in imagination.
The yellow clock symbolises optimism, vitality and joy, while the blue clock represents freedom, intuition, imagination and inspiration. Together they embody the balance between rational thought and creative vision that lies at the heart of the Air element.
Mask: Paper Mache (flower, water), acrylic paint, black elastic
Dress: Beige ribbon, small water pipes, 3 buttons, velcro
Hat: Plastic, felt paper, white plastic, acrylic paint, black elastic
Dig Deeper
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Angela Carone – Kit Kat club
a powerful moment of consciousness
A transition from pleasure to awareness
Copper is associated with Venus in alchemy, representing love, beauty, desire, sensuality and attraction. As one of the seven alchemical metals, it symbolises receptivity, harmony and the powerful forces that draw people toward one another, both physically and spiritually.
Through the song “Dig Deeper”, the character explores the relationship between desire and self-awareness. The performance reflects on the tension between external temptations and the deeper search for meaning, inviting the audience to look beyond appearances and discover what lies beneath the surface.
The character embodies a transformative moment of consciousness in which pleasure gives way to awareness. As she journeys through attraction, seduction and illusion, she gradually recognises her true self and begins to free herself from the limitations created by the mind.
The narrative draws inspiration from the historical persecution of women accused of witchcraft, using this symbolism to explore themes of judgment, desire and personal liberation. Through metaphor and storytelling, the performance questions how society perceives feminine power and individuality.
The lyrics blend humour, irony and vulnerability, opening a doorway to acceptance and compassion. As the song unfolds, the audience is invited to look deeper into their own desires, fears and motivations, recognising that genuine transformation begins with self-understanding.
“Surprising tender hands make me lose control, not sure how he dared, but my lipstick was stolen.”
Mask: Paper Mache (flour, water), acrylic paint, black elastic
Hat: Cardboard, tape, paper maché, black elastic, acrylic paint, red satin ribbon
Bow: Cardboard, paper maché, elastic, acrylic paint
Red Bow: Plastic and red spray
Dress: Plastic table sheet
Belt: plastic table sheet and velcro
Bracelets: Cardboard, acrylic paint, fake diamonds
Fire
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Narcisist – Su Eko Photo/Illustration: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Thomas Cooper
the psychic communication
with nature and the animal kingdom
Fire symbolises life force, courage, passion, willpower and transformation. In alchemy, it is both a creative and destructive force, representing the energy that drives growth, action and self-realisation. When balanced, fire becomes an expression of love, vitality and inner strength.
Through this character, fire is expressed as a profound connection with nature, animals and the living world. The performance explores the idea that all forms of life are interconnected and that true strength arises from empathy, awareness and respect for the natural environment.
Accompanied by the song “Fire”, the character embodies the ability to listen beyond words and connect with the emotional pulse of all living beings. The lyrics serve as a call for compassion and environmental consciousness, giving voice to a world that cannot always speak for itself.
“I can hear your heart in my soul, screaming to live while humans burn the world.”
Acting as a guardian and messenger between humanity and nature, the character sheds light on fear, suffering and disconnection while advocating for the protection of animals and the environment.
She is also associated with freedom, transcendence and communication with spiritual realms. A black and red feathered mohawk rises from her crown, symbolising the connection between self, others and the universe. The colour black represents protection, strength and authority, while red embodies vitality, courage, action and creative power.
Through the symbolism of fire, the performance invites the audience to rediscover their relationship with the natural world and recognise that compassion is one of humanity’s greatest strengths.
Mask: Paper Mache (flour, water, news paper), acrylic paint, black elastic.
Feathers Mohawk: Cardboard, felt paper, red and black, headband.
Bodysuit: Fabric and acrylic paint for fabric.
Neckless: Red sewing thread, black leather cord.
Wig: Straw, cardboard.
Art Mercenaries
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Australia, Melbourne, Graffiti On Wall by John W Banagan
Without children there is no future,
without art there is no expansion of the mind.
Both need your love!
Earth represents the foundation of life. In alchemy, it is associated with stability, patience, strength, health and grounding. It symbolises the qualities that sustain growth, provide security and allow both individuals and communities to flourish.
Written during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, this song emerged as a reflection on the fragile relationship between society and the creative community. It serves as a statement in support of artists, musicians and cultural workers whose contributions are often undervalued despite their essential role in shaping human experience.
Through the song, the character draws a parallel between children and artists. Both embody imagination, curiosity and the potential to create new possibilities for the future, yet both often depend on the care, support and protection of society in order to thrive.
“Who are the kids who like to play with toys?”
This recurring metaphor invites the audience to reconsider the value of creativity and to recognise art as a vital force in human development. Just as children shape the future, art expands the mind, challenges assumptions and encourages innovation.
The central message is simple: without children there is no future, and without art there is no evolution of human consciousness. Both deserve attention, protection and love.
Scientific research increasingly supports the positive effects of artistic engagement on emotional wellbeing, cognitive development and neurological function. The benefits of art extend beyond creation itself; they also emerge through observation, participation and shared cultural experiences.
Through the Earth element, the performance reminds us that a healthy society requires both strong roots and fertile imagination. Children and art are not luxuries—they are essential foundations upon which the future is built.
Mask: Paper Mache (flour, water, news paper), acrylic paint, black elastic
Dress: Plastic, white cotton cord, black marker
Belt: plastic velcro
Purse: felt paper, black ribbon, velcro, foam paper
Hair: Black woollen, foam paper, acrylic paint
Frozen Expression
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: Blade Runner Wallpaper
the power of thoughts can totally
guide you to different places in life
Lead is the first and oldest of the seven metals of alchemy and is traditionally associated with Saturn, the planet of time, limitation and transformation. Considered the heaviest and least refined of the alchemical metals, lead symbolises the impurities, fears and unconscious patterns that must be confronted before true transformation can occur.
In alchemical traditions, the burning of lead represents purification—the process of identifying and releasing the limitations that prevent personal growth. It marks the beginning of the journey from ignorance to awareness and from stagnation to evolution.
Accompanied by the song “Frozen Expression”, the character explores the extraordinary influence of the mind on human experience. The performance reflects on how thoughts shape perception, influence decisions and ultimately guide the direction of our lives.
Written during the winter of 2007 in New York, the song examines the relationship between thought and reality, questioning how deeply our beliefs and mental narratives influence the paths we choose and the worlds we create for ourselves.
The character is also associated with the concept of the causal loop, a paradox of time travel in which a future event becomes the cause of a past event, creating a closed cycle with no identifiable origin. Through this metaphor, the performance invites the audience to question the nature of time, destiny and free will.
If an action performed in the future influences the past, and that same past event becomes the cause of the future action, both moments become permanently connected within a continuous loop. The paradox serves as a reflection on the power of thought itself: how ideas, memories and expectations constantly shape one another, blurring the boundaries between past, present and future.
Through the symbolism of lead, the character reminds us that transformation begins in the mind. By becoming aware of our thoughts, we gain the ability to change the direction of our lives and break free from cycles that no longer serve us.
Mask: Paper Mache (flour, water, newspaper), acrylic paint, black elastic, glitter.
Hat: Cardboard, acrylic, fake diamonds, elastic, black feather.
Bracelet: Cardboard, acrylic paint, fake diamonds
Suit and Gloves: Vinyl.
Gole: Black fabric, velcro, fake diamonds.
Narcisist
'ALCHEMIC BODY'
Narcissist – Su Eko Photo: Art Mistake | *Background photo: David S. Allee
Gaslighting
and the Loss of Self
Silver is associated with the Moon and is one of the most versatile metals in alchemy.
Traditionally linked to intuition, self-reflection and inner wisdom, its symbolic qualities include divination, healing, protection, emotional awareness, love, dreams, luck and prosperity. Silver is also connected with vision, clarity, focus, perseverance and quiet strength.
Accompanied by the song “Narcissist”, this character explores the dangers of becoming trapped in manipulative and narcissistic relationships. Using the metaphor of a spider’s web, the lyrics remind us how easily a person can become entangled in psychological manipulation and emotional dependency.
The character also represents the tension between self-love and motherhood, symbolised by the red baby carried within the costume. Through a combination of humour and symbolism, the performance encourages reflection on personal boundaries, self-worth and emotional responsibility.
At its core, the piece serves as a warning about gaslighting and emotional abuse. It invites the audience to recognise the signs of manipulation before losing trust in their own perceptions and judgement.
If someone repeatedly manipulates you into questioning your own reality, judgement or sanity — run. That’s a narcissist.
Mask: Paper Mache (flower, water), acrylic paint, black elastic.
Crown – Gold postcard, red diamonds
Babies – Babies and red spray
Top – Plastic table sheet, black marker, white cotton cord.
Skirt – Red felt paper, 1 zip, red satin ribbon
Shoulder pads – Red felt paper, cardboard, gold cord, red satin cord, nude elastic.
Live performances
(Art Interventions)
Live Performance
Art Attack | Baby is on Fire
Art Attack – Baby is on Fire’
The conversion of passion touching change beyond recognition.
Su Eko presents a handcraft dress made out of pillow stuffing and wire while Astronauta Mecanico sets the stage on fire with video mapping projections.
The performance was presented in residency with the collective Art Attack, with art direction from Violeta Lisboa and visuals of Astronauta Mecanico, Diana Barra and Paulo Ulliard at Village Underground Lisbon in 2020.
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Palms
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Palms
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Live Performance
performance | Art Attack
Art Attack – ‘Make it Gold’
In the disturbed state of an environment or in the atmosphere of an astronomical body, this storm performance will touch you beyond the surface, as this character reflects gacefully the transformation of water into gold, an hyperbole on human existence.
‘Make It Gold’ track is a thurnderstrom of melodies uplifting the mind into aspiration.
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Palms
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Live Performance
aRT ATTACK | 2020
The Cage of Time – ‘Speed Time’
The irreversible speed of time clashes with more then just the egos, in this song ‘Speed Time’ communication and awareness are the keys that opens the cage to magic wonderland of freedom.
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Art Intervention / Live Performance
ART ATTACK | 2020
Heading stable grounding, a remind to well-being, self-nourishment, and boundaries of our planet earth. “Art Mercenaries” are the messengers with desire to call reason to our political systems. Slow beats, synth drive and atmospheric light harmonies this song talks about Artists and their struggle to support and survive from their art.
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Village Underground
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Desterro
Photo: Fotoplasta
Su Eko’s performance in Art Attack at Desterro
Photo: Fotoplasta