Horse Day

For the Horse Day series, in which he designs, stages, and documents an equestrian event, Bourouissa focuses on the efforts of a North Philadelphia community to revitalize the neighborhood.

Inspired by American photographer Martha Camarillo's photographs of the horsemen of Strawberry Mansion-an impoverished Philadelphia neighborhood-Bourouissa traveled there to see for himself the urban stables run by these men. For eight months he observed, sketched and photographed them. With a strong collaborative sensibility, Bourouissa integrated himself into the community, which led him to suggest to the men that they organize a contest, “Horse Day,” in which artists from other neighborhoods would be invited to create costumes for the horses. The video documents the event and its preparations, and acts as an examination of how society is structured and social processes are activated.