Walter De Forest, who you may have run into walking the streets looking very much like Vincent Van Gogh, has a show which is part art class, part voyage of self-discovery. Audience members often say it is one of the most relaxing shows on the Fringe. Here de Forest explains his Fringe philosophy.
Tell us about your show.
The show is a relaxing and unsuspecting hour of art with the storytelling of Vincent Van Gogh.
Why should we go and see it?
To reconnect with your humanity, the artist inside of us all and to get to know Vincent on a deeper level. Make new art and friends.
What makes you laugh?
Ooh that’s a good one, I love when things that are unexpected are said or done. The classic timing of the response through the silence … the beat … or just silence as a response … These moments I find can be sweet, funny and unrehearsed.
What three words best describe your performance style – and why?
Zen, infectious and heartwarming.
Why?, well the performance starts with art supplies on the table and some people respond by saying that they are terrible at art. I reassure everyone and we join in and all say out loud, “No Judgment”. So that we may create some art in a positive, fun way with support around us. The creative process suffers when there’s judgment.
Do you have nerves about going on stage and how do you cope with them?
Yes, mostly it is my brain thinking if I have done enough flyering? and other thoughts that affect a solo show with no team of people to get everything done … So I just have to let it all go and deal with the people in the room. Sometimes it is only one person, which happened a few times this year. But I have to say, a show with only one person can be so powerful , wonderful and moving.
What’s your idea of a perfect Fringe feast and where will you eat it?
The real Mosque Kitchen of course but if i have some money, I would go to Macau Kitchen. They are lovely and have bought my art. They shop for fresh ingredients daily. The food and staff are wonderful.
How will your audience think/feel differently after an hour in your company?
Look at the world, humans and people in a kinder way. The stories we heard of Van Gogh are now revealed to be a bit of hearsay. Don’t judge so quickly, be kind, support artists, and don’t let anyone step on your caterpillar. Look at ourselves in a kinder way as well.
When did you first realize you were born to be on stage?
As a child I would be silly and funny and would write funny poems.
Why do you think Edinburgh Fringe is so important to performers and artists around the world?
People can be shoulder to shoulder with some of the most talented performers and artists. Access to greatness on both sides. We share stories, support and receive recognition. Living our dream as performers and artists in EdFringe, we directly experience that people and the world appreciates our hard work, dedication and genius no matter where we are from around the world. We inspire each other.
How do you plan to relax and enjoy the city when you’re not performing?
I am living in Portobello by the beach so a nice home cooked meal, the back garden and a bonfire sound great. But if I am in town, I like walking and chatting with people, they sign my art jacket and we become all jovial, laughing and smiling.
Who is your showbiz idol and why?
Robin Williams has always been a hero of mine. Sadly, he is no longer with us so I’ll say that the experience of rubbing shoulders with the greats at the fringe is quite wonderful. I have become equals and friends with the most talented people in the world at the Fringe. I would say that Peter Buckley Hill and the PBH Team would be my Hero because they have made it possible for 28 years for artists to come and perform for free. The wonder of this fantastic experience has been made possible for so many that don’t have to “Pay to Play”.
What is your idea of a perfect Fringe moment?
Floating … not trying to find a moment… and then it happens. I was walking and yes I was feeling FOMO, that’s normal. Out of the Blue Someone says VINCENT!!! and it’s a friend, Molly Morris from NYC and we just run into each other and she says do you want to go see a musical? So we do. And I cry because the beauty of these unexpected moments unravel and I experience a wonderful show and performance.
These Fringe moments happen many times in various ways by not looking for them.
Van Gogh Find Yourself, VGFY, 12.15, PBH Free Fringe @ Brewhouse Doghouse Hotel, until August 25
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/van-gogh-find-yourself-vgfy
You can find out more about PBH’s Free Fringe here:
