MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW
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.
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.
the exhibition
'MASK // MIRROR // SHADOW’ took place on 3rd September 2022 from 18:00 - 22:00 at REDAH (Silbersteinstraße 133, 12051 Berlin) the exhibition aims to ironically communicate through the power of visualisation and perception of themselves. The installation consists of 4 three-dimensional contemporary works of various materials and medium. The viewers can experience as participation, relate to their experiences and posit themselves in an expanse that they not only observe but take part in.
Apart from the installation there is a theatrical performance inspired by the greek methodology, Narcissus. Guiding the audiences from the broken background of narcissists, to the transformation of self-esteem, then being overwhelmed by self absorption, the lack of empathy to themselves and to others, and finally the drowning into one’s own reflection that harm one’s self.
The main material I want to use is ‘ice’, as a modern interpretation of ‘water’ which is the core material in ‘Narcissus’ methodology. To add my idea into the original material, I use the logic behind the narcissistic way of thinking: the exaggerated desire to be loved, admired and to have the support of others. As water has been used as a self-reflector or mirror in ‘Narcissus’. The abstract and ironic logic behind ‘ice’ is to maintain that feeling of seeing oneself in the reflection forever as it is the endless reflection and absorption of oneself.
Therefore ‘ice’ has been use in this project as a main medium in the installation, performance and the making of sound. The sound we used in the performance had been recorded on the day from the ice on the stage along with other materials I use in the installation works. Purposely, we wanted to make it as live as possible in order to create a fresh energy and allow audiences to take part in the show as much as we can.
The performance aims to non-verbally define the terms of narcissism in multifaceted aspects and include the beauty and the beast of narcissistic traits. Even though, it does not indicate towards what is good and bad, as there is nothing as such but to create a safe space where we can equally explore ourselves and our complex minds. It purposely wants to seduce, embrace, stimulate and tickle the narcissist in all of us.
the installation
mirror current
Material: River and wooden frame
Ironically mimic the shape of river's current from 'Narcissus' using reflective materials connected to another piece of work which is a bowl of ice referred as a source of the water (and reflection).
brunch with the girls 💕
Material: Glass, aluminium, lithium, platinum and tungsten.
Playing with the presentation of oneself on social media. Who knows what happens behind the phone and camera in reality. We all perceive the image of what is already planned to be seen as 'reality'. The pizza is greener on the other side.
low fat, no sugar
Material: Tasty tape, juicy plants, delicious kitchen roll, crunchy block, tender mug.
Making fun of myself when I used to check every label of food products concerning the amount of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins to be match with my daily nutrition goal that connects to a long-term goal of staying healthy and in-shape. Sounds good... but also I was obsessed about it and overdid it. This piece wants to exaggerate the idea of self-obsessed activity by creating a nutrition label for everything, just in case. Honestly, the delicious kitchen roll is my fav dish!
Viewed
Material: Instagram friends.
When technology serves us 'attentions' on a plate, it's quite hard to refuse it. The Instagram's feature 'Story' allows us to share our images, videos, spread the news and events and also comes with the most interesting function of this modern era called 'viewers'. This function allows us to see people who has 'viewed' our 'story'. Regarding the fact that everyone uses this function to see who has 'viewed' whenever they share something on their 'Story'. However, it's not as simply as it sounds, we never talk about it out loud. Why? Seeking for attention is considering a shame? I created an interface showing the interaction of scrolling, infinite checking on the 'viewers' function on Instagram Story and put this interface on the iPad in the exhibition. Because, why not.
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