David Blaine in a Bubble

In May 2006, David Blaine was "Drowned Alive" for seven days and seven nights at Lincoln Center in New York City. It was one of a series of "stunts" to demonstrate the testing of the limits of the human body. I was at the event each day, and have added a few photos of events that took place.

One of the great features of the event was being able to see the reactions of tourists and locals as they each decided whether what they saw was actually "something".   There was a great story about an older couple who had always lived in the city, and were used to making judgements on whether what they were seeing was important or not.  In this instance, the wife thought that David Blaine in a bubble was something, but the husband disagreed and insisted that they keep walking.  I love how it took place in front of three famous theatres (well, 4 or 5 depending on what you are counting), and how it turned into a symbol of the idea that everything that takes place requires the judgement of whether we are viewing 'something' or not.

It was also interesting to watch people make a connection with David when they would climb the stairs to the bubble, and to see him get strength from his supporters. There were many times when a visitor would place their hand on the bubble, and David would place his back.  The simple act of participating in the event definitely turned it into something!  It was a great week!