silver lining

PERFORMATIVE PROJECT | KUMASI_2023

“silver lining” is a performative project developed in collaboration with Ghanian fashion designer Austin Nortey (Nakusbrand) in Kumasi, Ghana. The project explores different approaches to dealing with difficult mental states and heavy emotions through medium of writing with aim to share this processes in a space where private becomes public and universally shared.

Clothes serves a purpose beyond simply protecting our bodies. Since a person's mood as well as choice of a dress are affected by emotions, either consciously or unconsciously. Writing is yet another way we can confront our emotions. It's a process that gives emotions a certain form. Writing is a meditation and a ritual process of facing our pain. Sitting with our own thoughts can be scary, but through this process, we create space for ourselves. The entire ritual embodies a difficult process that accompanies the pain but leads to relief or self-protection.

Performance explores two processing principles. The first principle depicts the heavy feeling in the chest that suffocates, and by writing, the author creates space for breathing, bows from self-destructive emotions, and gives space for self-transformation and healing. The second principle is about building a shield of protection on the body from experiences that hurt us, as a lesson for the future. By writing, we heal our wounds. Just like gentian violet entering a wound hurts but is necessary for healing.

The performance takes place in a staged space/ sanctuary that directs visitors from the entrance to the center point of the performance, aiming to create an intimate environment and bring the visitors in close proximity to these processes.

costume: Austin Nortey | Nakus brand
technical support: Percy Nii Nortey | NOI studio
photography and video: Adams Yakini. Baah Solomon Aboagye | originalbigwig, Percy Nii Nortey
drone: Justography
communication and support: perfocraZe International Artist Residency