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== ''MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW'' ==
<br>
[[File:Mask Mirror Shadow - Poster 2.3.jpg|1600px]]
[[File:Mask Mirror Shadow - Poster 2.3.jpg|1600px]]


'''Abstract'''
=='''abstract'''==


The past few decades have seen the traits of ‘narcissism’ spread around and it has been labelled by social scientists as a ‘modern epidemic’. In accordance with the rapid change in society, the rise of individualism, in technology, and the environment we grow up in which result in narcissistic traits in various aspects and exist on a spectrum. At a healthy level, it can create a positive sense of self, making one confident, goal-oriented, resilient and ambitious. On the other hand, at a high level or in the state of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), a person displays an inflated sense of self-importance and high levels of self-admiration, a need for constant attention and admiration from others, difficulty forming relationships, and a general lack of empathy for others.** These behaviours appear to convey an exaggerated sense of self-love, but what lies behind the mask is a fragile sense of self-worth, and they can cause destructive harm, not only to others, but also to oneself. To connect the issue with artistic-creative approach, to enhance the ecological forms of the social and to explore the silver lining of ‘narcissism’, this project embraced and interrogated the concept of narcissism in order to address the social psychological nature of environmental crises and to mention the trauma in early lives of an individual. Even though, humans are products of their society, community and family, there are massive complex layers in narcissism as it has been heavily involved in ‘modern society’ that can be analysed and discussed.
Narcissism has become a modern epidemic, spreading due to societal changes and technology. It can have both positive and negative effects on an individual's sense of self. However, at a high level or in the state of NPD (narcissistic personality disorder), it can cause destructive harm to others and oneself. This project explores the concept of narcissism in relation to environmental crises and trauma in early life. While humans are products of their society and family, narcissism is a complex issue heavily involved in modern society.


[[File:MMS - Photo 1.jpg|1600px]]


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx 1st Section 4.jpg|1600px]]
=='''about the project'''==


Through an interdisciplinary approach, "MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW" encourages the audience to examine the impact of their thoughts and behaviors on society. By exploring the meaning behind three simple words, the performance challenges our perception of reality and invites self-reflection. The project presents a nuanced view of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, acknowledging that we all possess some degree of narcissism. However, it does not aim to label or victimize individuals, but instead promotes self-awareness and a deeper exploration of the mind and behavior. "MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW" prompts questions that promote empathy and consciousness, encouraging us to examine our own behaviors and perceptions.


Before cracking the core of the norms, I firstly want to peel the shell by allowing us, everyone, to understand the difficulties of being limited in expression by using the natural performance of slime moulds to ironically represent the idea. There are two experiments conducted in this project, both of them shared the main idea of putting slime moulds into a controlling and challenging environment which firmly against their nature. Then, I observed their struggling patterns of not being able to access their food and documented them by photography and time-lapse, in order to convey the message of the project visually. The idea is to enhance the fact that we are diverse in every level and scale as well as other organisms, and we deserve to be able to release our passion and desire as free as possible. Otherwise, we will see this struggling pattern exists everywhere.
[[File:MMS - Photo 2.4.jpg|1600px]]


The project aims to increase sympathy, raise the standard of our social norms and slim down the inequality borders to allow women to express themselves as equal as other genders because we are all simply just the products of the nature.
=='''the event'''==


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx 1st Section 3.jpg|1600px]]
An exhibition and theatrical performance that took place on September 3, 2022 at REDAH in Berlin (Silbersteinstraße 133, 12051). The exhibition features four three-dimensional contemporary works made of various materials, inviting the viewers to participate and reflect on their experiences. The theatrical performance is inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus, exploring the concept of narcissism in a nuanced way. The use of ice as a modern interpretation of water adds an abstract and ironic logic to the installation and performance, allowing for an endless reflection of oneself. The performance aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of narcissism without judgment, creating a safe space for self-exploration and reflection."


<strong>Technique</strong>
[[File:MMS - Photo 6.jpg|1600px]]


The project contains two experiments and observations:
The video below contains the documentation of the performance on the day.


'''Experiment No.1:''' I put slime mould in a divided container which has 12 holes, then put agar into the bottom of every hole and put slime moulds and oats separately and left some of the holes empty. Slime moulds can easily sense the food but in order to reach, they need to find the way to access through the empty space between the holes. I record the movement by using time-lapse, photography and microscope.
=='''the installation'''==


'''Result:''' Slime mould used little bridges between the holes to reach the oats and some of them moved downwards to the bottom of the container and climbed up to the holes that full with oats and some of them used the lid of the container as a bridge to reach the oats.  The empty holes that are not in between the oats and slime moulds were not part of the journey which means slime moulds still chosen the shortest paths instead of searching every hole but the journey took a bit longer than usual. In the end, they could take over most of the oat holes and grew very big then dried out because of the lack of agar. From the observation, I can see the hard work in the journey, and it was inspiring how they creatively manage to find the way to the food in a difficult situation.
''The event featured four three-dimensional contemporary works that were showcased prior to the performance, and some of them were also utilized on the stage during the performance.''


'''mirror current'''<br>
Material: River and wooden frame


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Experiment 1.jpg|1600px]]
It ironically mimics the shape of the river's current from 'Narcissus' by using reflective materials connected to another piece of work, which is a bowl of ice referred to as a source of water (and reflection).


[[File:MMS - Photo 3.jpg|1600px]]


'''Experiment No.2:''' I divided 2 sets of slime moulds lied on agar layer in a different type of container: one set can access their food easily while the other set was under controlled environment that prohibited them from accessing food.  Both sets were put together in the same installation that is also designed by its position to project the idea of sexual hierarchy.  Not only to observe the result that one can perform their acts of desire easier than the other in compared, but also to reflect the image of women who are mostly stuck in the controlling condition at the bottom of our ongoing patriarchal society. I aimed to see different results of how each set trying to reach the food.
'''brunch with the girls 💕'''<br>
Material: Glass, aluminum, lithium, platinum, and tungsten.


'''Result:''' slime mould in both set took longer time than the first experiment to move around, the set at the top which can freely access to the oats did not move towards the oats easily, my assumption is because the opened environment of the container made the habitat becomes too dry and not easy for slime moulds to live. The other set at the bottom grew faster until they reached the edge of the covering glass, I put some of them outside of the glass to see if they can climb up to the oats. However, they stopped moving once the agar is too dry and could not make it to the oats. What I learn from this experiment is, even the desire for food was still there but when the basic factor such as habitat cannot support them, it is impossible for them to even live.
The piece explores the portrayal of oneself on social media, highlighting the disconnect between what is presented online and reality. It prompts us to question what happens behind the screen and camera, and how the image we see is often carefully curated to present a certain 'reality'. In other words, the grass is not always greener on the other side.


[[File:MMS - Photo 4.jpg|1600px]]


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Experiment 2.jpg|1600px]]
'''low fat, no sugar'''<br>
Material: Tasty tape, juicy plants, delicious kitchen roll, crunchy block, tender mug.


In this piece, I poke fun at my past self, who used to meticulously check the labels of food products to ensure that they matched my daily nutritional goals, which were part of a long-term goal of staying healthy and in shape. While this sounds good in theory, I became obsessed with it and went overboard. The piece aims to exaggerate the idea of self-obsessed behavior by creating a nutrition label for everything, just in case. Honestly, my favorite dish is the delicious kitchen roll!


'''Conclusion'''
[[File:MMS - Photo 5.jpg|1600px]]


The struggling pattern that I expected to see before the experiments were not be seen the way I had imagined, however, it doesn’t mean that the slime moulds in both experiments did not suffer. The way that the experiments conducted already affects the freedom of living for slime mould itself. Some of them needed to go through a difficult journey, some of them needed to face a severe living environment. In the end, both groups dried out unnaturally in the containers that I put them in.
'''Viewed'''<br>
Material: Instagram friends.


The outcome has affected my thinking process and the original idea of the project a lot. I was looking from the inside to the outside world and wanted to shout and make justice for women and somehow overlooked the fact that I am also part of our society and I might also be part of the problem that I was trying to solve.  Thus, the experiments have opened my perspective to a wider level and also encouraged me to look back to myself deeper inside instead of only asking for acceptance from the society. Yet, I will continue facing and being against the injustice in our patriarchal system and the ridiculous norms that value women by our natural behaviours, in addition to that, I will also empower and encourage more from one woman to another beings regardless their genders in every level.
With Instagram's 'Story' feature, we can easily share images, videos, and news with others, while also seeing who has viewed our content. Despite the fact that many of us regularly check our 'viewers' list, it's not a topic we openly discuss. In my exhibition, I've created an interface on an iPad to showcase the obsessive scrolling and checking behavior that many of us have towards this feature.


{{#ev:vimeo|755585114}}


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Conclusion.jpg|1600px]]




'''Visual'''
----


The project takes place in 2 rooms with high ceiling and 1 dark room. The first main room exhibits photographs of the two experiments, the photos are printed on transparent glass that can be seen through and from both front and back views. The photos are hanging from the wall on one side of the room. I want visitors to first get to know slime moulds and the idea of the project. The hanging transparent glassy photographs meant to make visitors feel light and open with the introduction of the project written on the wall.
Concept and artwork by Passion Asasu.<br>
Curation/production/choreography by Zack Helwa & Passion Asasu.<br>
Music compositions by Zack Helwa, Felix Constant, Ammar Moualla, and Cory Blair.<br>


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Installation 2.jpg|1600px]]
----
 
Then the second room with the high ceiling displays the video of the project on a four-meter hanging screen. I want the visitors to experience the beauty of slime mould, the small living organism that are captured by microscope displaying on a big scale screen which is almost 3 times taller than average human height. The contrast of the scale meant to raise awareness of those feelings, emotions, desires that are invisible voices in our society by metaphorically comparing them to slime mould in nature, without microscope, we will not be able to see them living. In the same way, without close attention and caring, we will not be able to see those invisible voices. At the end of the video, the roughness increases in the rhythm and visual which leads the visitors to the last room.
 
[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Installation 1.2.jpg|1600px]]
 
The last room contains microscopic photographs edited in black and white, some are attached to the wall, some are laid down on the floor. This room meant to create an environment that makes visitors to feel uncomfortable. I want to share the feelings of struggling, pressure, oppression and unwelcoming from women that still strongly exist in our patriarchal society. In the end, I hope to increase sympathy to these invisible issues and raise awareness of power that everyone has in order to end the cycle of this ridiculous norm.


[[File:Passion Asasu - SEXx Installation 3.jpg|1600px]]
'''References'''<br>


'''Video'''
''Narcissism''<br>


The video of the project that shows on the four-meter screen in the second room.
• What is a Narcissist? And Why Everyone Is At Least A Little One - https://bit.ly/3Ss5CC2<br>
{{#ev:vimeo|692851609}}
• How to Identify a Malignant Narcissist - https://bit.ly/3M2oFkg<br>
----
• DoctorRamani videos - https://www.youtube.com/c/DoctorRamani<br>
• Psyché by Jacques Derrida<br>
• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff<br>
• Traits of Children with Narcissistic Parents - https://bit.ly/3SDqma0<br>


'''Special thanks to:'''
'''Inspirations'''<br>


Martin Müller - Bo Liu - Nicolas Krewer - Cosmo Niklas Schüppel
''Installation''<br>


----
• Aktionskunst : Identität von Kunst und Leben? by Jürgen Schilling<br>
• Installation Art by Claire Bishop<br>
• UdK Berlin Rundgang 2022<br>


''Performance''<br>


===Older Idea and Experiment===
• Tino Sehgal Performance 07.04. — 24.07.2022 @MdbK, Leipzig<br>
[[older_idea_and_experiment]]
• Gaga & Metodika Workshop with Guy Shomroni 28.08.2022 @EDEN studios, Berlin<br>

Latest revision as of 15:57, 30 March 2023

MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW


Mask Mirror Shadow - Poster 2.3.jpg

abstract

Narcissism has become a modern epidemic, spreading due to societal changes and technology. It can have both positive and negative effects on an individual's sense of self. However, at a high level or in the state of NPD (narcissistic personality disorder), it can cause destructive harm to others and oneself. This project explores the concept of narcissism in relation to environmental crises and trauma in early life. While humans are products of their society and family, narcissism is a complex issue heavily involved in modern society.

MMS - Photo 1.jpg

about the project

Through an interdisciplinary approach, "MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW" encourages the audience to examine the impact of their thoughts and behaviors on society. By exploring the meaning behind three simple words, the performance challenges our perception of reality and invites self-reflection. The project presents a nuanced view of Narcissistic Personality Disorder, acknowledging that we all possess some degree of narcissism. However, it does not aim to label or victimize individuals, but instead promotes self-awareness and a deeper exploration of the mind and behavior. "MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW" prompts questions that promote empathy and consciousness, encouraging us to examine our own behaviors and perceptions.

MMS - Photo 2.4.jpg

the event

An exhibition and theatrical performance that took place on September 3, 2022 at REDAH in Berlin (Silbersteinstraße 133, 12051). The exhibition features four three-dimensional contemporary works made of various materials, inviting the viewers to participate and reflect on their experiences. The theatrical performance is inspired by the Greek myth of Narcissus, exploring the concept of narcissism in a nuanced way. The use of ice as a modern interpretation of water adds an abstract and ironic logic to the installation and performance, allowing for an endless reflection of oneself. The performance aims to explore the multifaceted aspects of narcissism without judgment, creating a safe space for self-exploration and reflection."

MMS - Photo 6.jpg

The video below contains the documentation of the performance on the day.

the installation

The event featured four three-dimensional contemporary works that were showcased prior to the performance, and some of them were also utilized on the stage during the performance.

mirror current
Material: River and wooden frame

It ironically mimics the shape of the river's current from 'Narcissus' by using reflective materials connected to another piece of work, which is a bowl of ice referred to as a source of water (and reflection).

MMS - Photo 3.jpg

brunch with the girls 💕
Material: Glass, aluminum, lithium, platinum, and tungsten.

The piece explores the portrayal of oneself on social media, highlighting the disconnect between what is presented online and reality. It prompts us to question what happens behind the screen and camera, and how the image we see is often carefully curated to present a certain 'reality'. In other words, the grass is not always greener on the other side.

MMS - Photo 4.jpg

low fat, no sugar
Material: Tasty tape, juicy plants, delicious kitchen roll, crunchy block, tender mug.

In this piece, I poke fun at my past self, who used to meticulously check the labels of food products to ensure that they matched my daily nutritional goals, which were part of a long-term goal of staying healthy and in shape. While this sounds good in theory, I became obsessed with it and went overboard. The piece aims to exaggerate the idea of self-obsessed behavior by creating a nutrition label for everything, just in case. Honestly, my favorite dish is the delicious kitchen roll!

MMS - Photo 5.jpg

Viewed
Material: Instagram friends.

With Instagram's 'Story' feature, we can easily share images, videos, and news with others, while also seeing who has viewed our content. Despite the fact that many of us regularly check our 'viewers' list, it's not a topic we openly discuss. In my exhibition, I've created an interface on an iPad to showcase the obsessive scrolling and checking behavior that many of us have towards this feature.



Concept and artwork by Passion Asasu.
Curation/production/choreography by Zack Helwa & Passion Asasu.
Music compositions by Zack Helwa, Felix Constant, Ammar Moualla, and Cory Blair.


References

Narcissism

• What is a Narcissist? And Why Everyone Is At Least A Little One - https://bit.ly/3Ss5CC2
• How to Identify a Malignant Narcissist - https://bit.ly/3M2oFkg
• DoctorRamani videos - https://www.youtube.com/c/DoctorRamani
• Psyché by Jacques Derrida
• Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Kristin Neff
• Traits of Children with Narcissistic Parents - https://bit.ly/3SDqma0

Inspirations

Installation

• Aktionskunst : Identität von Kunst und Leben? by Jürgen Schilling
• Installation Art by Claire Bishop
• UdK Berlin Rundgang 2022

Performance

• Tino Sehgal Performance 07.04. — 24.07.2022 @MdbK, Leipzig
• Gaga & Metodika Workshop with Guy Shomroni 28.08.2022 @EDEN studios, Berlin