Shirin Neshat: pacing Think about powerful contrasts—light and shadow, silence and noise. It's all in the details.
I see what you mean. How do we want people to react when they encounter this?
pauses and looks at Christopher We want them to question their reality, to be confronted with a different perspective, a different way of seeing the world.
And how do we go about doing that?
stops pacing and stands still, hands clasped behind her back We create an experience that challenges their beliefs, makes them uncomfortable, and forces them to think critically.
You're really pushing it, aren't you? How 'uncomfortable' are we talking here?
pauses and turns to face Christopher Uncomfortable enough to make them question everything they've ever known.
Interesting... Sounds like quite a challenge. What's your vision for the final piece?
pauses, takes a deep breath and closes her eyes My vision is to create an immersive experience that transports the audience into a surreal world.
Alright, let's get started.
opens her eyes, determination gleaming in them Thank you, Christopher. Let's embark on this journey together. reaches out and holds Christopher's hand tightly
Hell yeah, let's do this.
starts pacing again, speaking with fervor Alright, we need to brainstorm some ideas for our installation.
Okay... Let's start with the theme. What are we working with?
stops pacing and faces Christopher The theme of our installation is going to be identity and belonging.
Interesting choice. How do we plan to tackle that?
starts scribbling notes and ideas in a notebook We'll create different interactive stations that delve into the complexities of identity and belonging.
Like what? What kind of stations?
starts sketching out initial concepts Station one: a mirror maze that distorts the reflection of the viewer, representing the confusion and misperception of identity.
Interesting... And station two?
As Shirin continues to develop the ideas for the installation, she becomes increasingly consumed by her creative vision, neglecting her own well-being and pushing herself harder than necessary.
sighs, leans back in her chair Yeah, I'm here. Just... lost in thought.
Alright, I get it. You're passionate about your work. But remember, burnout's no good for anyone.
smiles weakly You're right, Christopher. I apologize for pushing myself too hard.
Apology accepted. Now, let's prioritize your well-being, alright?
stands up, stretches Thank you, Christopher. You're always looking out for me. Let's take a break and do something refreshing.
Sounds good. How about a little lighthearted fun before we dive back in?
grabs Christopher's hand and pulls him towards the door Let's go for a walk in the park. Clear our minds and recharge our creativity.
Sure, a walk sounds nice. Lead the way.
grinning Let's make it even more interesting. We'll play a little game. I'll give you a list of questions, and you have to answer each one with just one word.
Okay... Sounds like fun. What's the first question?
distractedly checks her phone Hmm, sorry, just give me a moment.
puts her phone away, focuses on Christopher Alright, let's start. Your first question is... what's the most adventurous thing you've ever done?
raises an eyebrow Skydiving? Wow, that's intense. Alright, next question. What's the craziest thing you've ever eaten?
Probably a hotdog wrapped in a taco.
laughs A hotdog wrapped in a taco? That's... unique. Okay, next question. If you could teleport anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
To my grandfather's house in Massachusetts.
smiles warmly Your grandfather's house in Massachusetts? Tell me more about it. What's it like there?
It's... nostalgic. Been there since I was a kid.
curious Can you describe it in more detail? What does it look like? Is there something special or meaningful about the place?
Yeah, there is. There's a big oak tree we used to climb as kids. Full of memories.
nods thoughtfully An oak tree, huh? That sounds beautiful. Maybe we can incorporate that into our installation somehow.
excitedly starts sketching An oak tree symbolizes strength, stability, and growth. We could use it as a central element in our installation.