They say ‘home is where the heart is’ and the pandemic has proved in many ways that this time-tested saying stays true. As a response to the pandemic, we decided to isolate ourselves and stay locked up in our homes, thus preventing the spread to those around us. Our lockdowns have lasted weeks and, in some cases, even months. It was a new experience for us and unique to each one. It was something for which we were altogether unprepared for, as there was no precedence for us to learn. But the prevalent note that rings through is how each one of us reimagined our relationship with our home. What does ‘home’ really mean to us? What do we expect from the place we call home? Is it our own private space to make us feel safe? or, is it a prison to lock us away from situations where have to be or want to be?
‘Anam Cara’ is a collective based performance film, curated by Verena Stenke and Andreas Pagnes. This experimental film features the performances of twenty-two artists from across the world with each one creating a room in this collective home. From the safety of their studios, they have put together an imaginary dwelling through which one can take a leisurely stroll and step into the rooms to meet them. With twenty-two artists featured in the film, we can expect a wide variety of art forms being used to tell us a story: ranging from emotional diary writings to touching voice-overs, creative videos, soulful body performances, and some fine poetry. ‘Anam Cara’ does not disappoint on any one of these counts.
‘Anam Cara’ is an original experiment in fusing different art forms to create a comprehensive offering which while maintaining the unique flavours of each of its ingredients, leaves behind a nouveau aftertaste that will soothe the soul. What makes the whole idea even more delightful is that it manifests at a time when the entire world was grappling with a situation that is unpredictable, insecure and gloomy.
