location _
Goethe University, Frankfurt
status _
completed
All Humans revolves around the creation of luminous canopies adorned with alphabets from Vai syllabary, serving as zones for communal gatherings and introspection. It is a permanent art installation project at the School of Linguistics and Cultural Studies, Goethe University, Frankfurt, conceived in partnership with Raqs Media Collective.
We explore the intricate relationships that linguistic worlds offer, transmitting mystery, mutuality, and reciprocity across languages. Inspired by the Vai language syllabary of West Africa, our installation pays homage to the evolution of human writing, reflecting its architectonic beauty and symbolic significance.
The work comprises a distributed video sculpture featuring variable pixel pitch LED technology, intricately intertwined with steel structures. The form draws inspiration from the Vai language syllabary, the installation showcases immersive 3D and 2D environments. Additionally, electric shamiyana patterns add a captivating layer of detail, inviting viewers to engage with the rich tapestry of language and culture.
Drawing from Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, our installation begins with the profound statement, "all human beings...", symbolizing equality, dignity, and the interconnectedness of humanity. This forms the scaffolding for our luminous canopy, where language becomes a shelter for shared experiences and expressions.
