February 19, 2026, Los Angeles – Los Angeles is set to host one of the most exciting and innovative performances in its dynamic contemporary art scene with the debut of artist Amanda Ross‑Ho’s live performance piece, “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)”. The artwork will premiere at Frieze Los Angeles, one of the city’s leading art events, and promises to captivate audiences with its bold fusion of physicality, humor, and cultural reflection.
An Artist Known for Interdisciplinary Innovation
Amanda Ross‑Ho is a Los Angeles‑based artist who has built a reputation for her interdisciplinary approach to contemporary art. Known for blending sculpture, performance, and video work, Ross‑Ho’s practice often centers on themes such as memory, identity, and the fluidity of human experiences within larger societal frameworks. “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)” is no exception. The piece reflects Ross‑Ho’s ongoing exploration of movement and its connection to cultural constructs.
The performance itself revolves around the concept of physical engagement with a monumental inflatable globe that will be rolled around a soccer pitch. As the sphere moves, it challenges ideas of space, control, and the interrelationship between human effort and the ever‑changing, interconnected world we inhabit.
The Performance: A Cultural and Physical Reflection
The event is not just an exploration of the artist’s aesthetic vision, but a public performance that engages the audience both visually and intellectually. The giant inflatable globe will roll across the space in an unpredictable fashion, forcing the performer, and by extension, the audience, to question notions of agency, the manipulation of space, and the absurdity of trying to control large-scale forces. The sphere itself, though whimsical in nature, serves as a metaphor for the modern world’s chaotic, often uncontrollable nature.
The performance’s title, “Manual Mode,” further amplifies this tension between human intervention and global dynamics. In a time when much of society is dominated by automated systems and algorithms, Ross‑Ho’s decision to rely on physical, manual control of the globe underscores the importance of human interaction in shaping our environment, even in small and seemingly insignificant ways.
Frieze Los Angeles: A Platform for Contemporary Art
Frieze Los Angeles, known for its eclectic programming and influential presence in the global art world, provides the perfect venue for Ross‑Ho’s performance. The event, which runs from February 19 to 22, attracts artists, collectors, curators, and enthusiasts from around the world. Its reputation for championing innovative, boundary-pushing works aligns seamlessly with Ross‑Ho’s creative vision.
Frieze Los Angeles is particularly notable for its focus on both established and emerging artists. The fair offers a unique space for local artists like Ross‑Ho to present their work to a broader audience while fostering conversations on the role of art in a rapidly changing cultural and social landscape. By participating in Frieze, Ross‑Ho is joining the ranks of other celebrated artists who have used this platform to challenge conventions and expand the possibilities of artistic expression.
Los Angeles: A Hub for Contemporary Art
Los Angeles has long been a hub for contemporary art, serving as home to some of the most innovative and influential artistic practices in the world. With its wealth of museums, galleries, and dynamic cultural communities, the city offers artists a unique space to experiment and push the boundaries of creative expression.
Frieze Los Angeles is a key part of the city’s rich cultural fabric, bringing together established institutions, galleries, and alternative spaces. Events like Frieze also contribute to Los Angeles’ status as a global cultural leader, shaping the direction of contemporary art for years to come.
Amanda Ross‑Ho’s Role in the L.A. Art Scene
As a Los Angeles artist, Amanda Ross‑Ho’s work holds special significance for the city’s artistic community. Her work often draws inspiration from the city’s diverse cultural influences, making it an essential piece of the conversation surrounding the evolution of contemporary art in the region.
Ross‑Ho’s ability to engage with both local and international audiences has allowed her to build a distinctive voice within the art world. Her multidisciplinary approach, encompassing everything from sculptural pieces to large-scale installations and now live performances, makes her a versatile figure in Los Angeles’ cultural landscape. “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)” continues this tradition of artistic exploration, offering audiences an experience that transcends traditional art forms and fosters a deeper understanding of the complexities of modern life.
The Audience Experience: Engaging with the Art
One of the most exciting aspects of “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)” is how it invites audience members to become active participants in the artwork. The vast, rolling globe creates an interactive environment that calls upon viewers to reflect on their own relationship to the performance. Whether it’s the act of moving around the globe or simply observing the action, the audience plays a key role in shaping the outcome of the piece.
This participatory aspect is a hallmark of many of Ross‑Ho’s works, which blur the lines between performer and spectator. In “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE),” the physicality of the piece and the audience’s proximity to the performance will create a visceral experience that deepens the engagement with the work.
A Timely Reflection on Global Connectivity
In an era where global connectivity and interdependence are constant topics of conversation, Ross‑Ho’s piece reflects the broader cultural and political currents shaping the world today. The idea of a globe, a symbol of both unity and division, rolling through a public space in a manual, human‑driven mode offers an insightful critique of the world’s attempts to balance control with chaos.
As Los Angeles continues to be a melting pot of cultures and ideas, Ross‑Ho’s “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)” offers a timely and powerful reflection on our collective place in a complex, interconnected world. The piece encourages viewers to question their role in global events and consider the consequences of their actions, both large and small.
Conclusion: A Landmark Event at Frieze Los Angeles
Amanda Ross‑Ho’s “Untitled Orbit (MANUAL MODE)” promises to be one of the standout performances of Frieze Los Angeles 2026, offering audiences a thought‑provoking and engaging experience that captures the essence of contemporary art today. As it blends physical performance, cultural critique, and humor, the piece invites reflection on the tensions between control, agency, and the unpredictable nature of the world around us.
For those lucky enough to attend, it will be a moment to witness a powerful piece of art that challenges perceptions, inspires dialogue, and deepens our understanding of the complex relationship between humanity and the world we inhabit.
