Behind The Scenes: Laundry Day for 1-800 Party Time
The Concept for Clown Laundry Day
1.800PartyTime and I go way back. Years ago, we did a photoshoot at the Oculus that ended with some grumblings and negotiations with security (but that’s a story for another time). Fast forward to now: I’d long been toying with the idea of a "laundry day photoshoot." Back when I lived in Stuytown, I had a laundry room access for a whole year but never acted on it. Honestly, the idea felt overdone, and I wasn’t sure I could bring anything fresh to the concept.
By 2024, a friend of mine who also lived in Stuytown was about to move out, and I realized my easy access to the space was slipping away. The brainstorming began again: How can I make this unique? That’s when it hit me—what if a clown was doing their laundry? What would that look like?
A quick dive into Pinterest and Google Images for "clown laundry day photoshoot" showed mostly creepy, clowns in laundry rooms—grim smiles and unsettling vibes and that’s when I knew I wanted to do something with that.
Planning was simple: secure the day, gather some "clowny" props, and bring a touch of magic. The star of the shoot? A bag of tinsel. It tied everything together, adding sparkle and turning the concept into something delightfully whimsical.
Meet the Muse:
Tell me a little about yourself.
I'm PartyTime! ✧˚ ༘ ⋆｡˚ I used to be terrified of popping balloons—funny, right? But I guess I got over it. The circus has always inspired me, ever since I was a kid. The colors, the vibe, the sheer excitement I felt after every show… it always left me brimming with ideas and the urge to create.
What inspired you to become a clown?
If I dig deep, it probably started with the clown dolls my grandmother had in her house. I was fascinated by their painted faces and wanted to recreate that magic.
Do you have a favorite memory or performance?
My favorite performance is always my most recent one. I’m constantly evolving, always trying to outdo my last big thing. For me, the present moment stands out the most.
How would you describe your clown persona?
I draw inspiration from alternative aesthetics—anime, manga, music, nightlife. My persona shifts depending on my mood, but it always stays authentic to who I am. I love showing that kind of honesty through my art.
What themes or messages do you try to convey?
There’s an inner child in all of us. There’s also an angry teenager and an empowered young adult. Exploring those themes is healing, and I love sharing that journey through my work.
Do you incorporate other art forms into your performances?
Absolutely! I’m a contortionist, and I do what I call "clowntortion." I’m also an aerialist—I love being a sad, sexy, spinning clown in the sky. My acts are not geared for kids.
What’s something about clowns or clowning that people often misunderstand?
I think misunderstandings come from not asking the right questions.
How has clowning shaped your view of yourself or the world?
I’ve always been a clown at heart, and honestly, I think there’s a bit of a clown in everyone.
What’s next for you as a clown/performer?
Bigger and louder honks.
Are there any projects or performances you’re particularly excited about?
One day, I want to tattoo myself while contorting.
Anything else you’d like to share?
I stab people with needles, they pay me, and it’s all fine because I make them laugh. (Check me out at @vanessamonday.)
This shoot was a reminder of how much magic can be found in everyday moments—especially when you bring a little sparkle and a whole lot of clown energy.
How does one get in contact with you?
You can find me on instagram