We discovered that people are brave. We discovered the answer to be yes.

Tora Lopez and Rya Kleinpeter began collaborating as INNER COURSE in January of 2011 at the opening of the Museum of Old and New Art in Tasmania. Their piece there, Many Rumors of Renni Esruoc, explored the intimate space that can be discovered between strangers within an aesthetic and language-based world of their making. 1-800 numbers, telephones, a red-velvet bed, provocative and abject costuming and a chorus of Tasmanian women singing folk songs while working out on exercise equipment rounded out the piece. Unscripted telephone conversations with strangers formed the work’s core. Strangers called a toll free number in response to personal ads Rya and Tora posted on the internet, and conversations often initiated on the pretext of sex were subverted to explore the range of human emotion – dreams, fears, play, absurdity, confessions. The museum audience remained at a distance; the conversations were broadcast into a gallery. I thought the work was particularly brilliant. I was thrilled to give them their next opportunity.

By design, Panties For Diamonds revealed little about itself publicly. It was important that people enter the experience without preconceived expectations. A street propaganda campaign, email announcements, and a door labeled INNER COURSE on the West Side Highway were the only enticements to the public. Visitors were encouraged to make appointments. Walk-ins were also welcome.