A Maryland-based performance artist, known as Ham, is taking an unconventional approach to funding an engagement ring for his girlfriend. Standing in nothing but his underwear, Ham sets up on street corners in major cities, including New York, London, and Berlin, to raise money for the precious gift. His cardboard sign reads “engagement ring savings fund,” along with his Venmo and Instagram handles.
This “Performance artist engagement ring” stunt is more than just a creative fundraiser—it’s a social commentary. Ham, 30, explains that his performance questions societal norms about comfort in public spaces. “If people object to me being in my underwear, just look across the street at the giant Calvin Klein ad,” Ham says, referencing the larger-than-life ad on the New York corner where he performed. The idea is to challenge the disconnect between what society deems acceptable in advertising versus what it finds uncomfortable in real life.
How the Performance Artist Engagement Ring Became Art
For Ham, this performance isn’t just about collecting cash; it’s about making a statement. While most donations come in at $1 or $5, he’s been surprised with $50 and even $100 bills. The artist sees this as a perfect example of “crowd-sourced” art. People are not just helping with the ring—they are part of a larger artistic movement.
The project has also given Ham insight into the power of the institution of marriage. “A London gallery owner said if I was raising money to feed myself, people wouldn’t help, but this is different,” he shares.
Performance Artist Engagement Ring: A True Act of Love
Ham’s motivation goes beyond the art. His goal is to give a beautiful engagement ring to his girlfriend, Alma. The two met seven months ago, and Alma, a horse trainer, admires Ham’s boldness. “He treats me well and embraces my adventurous spirit,” Alma says. Though she knew Ham would be performing art on his travels, she didn’t know he would be using it to fund a ring.
Ham plans to return to New York City, continuing his performance from April 29 to May 4, standing at the corner of East Houston and Lafayette Streets from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day.
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Source: www.people.com
