In my work “Chrysalis,” I want to explore the spiritual idea of rebirth/renewal through the concept of the chrysalis. Why chrysalis? Like the caterpillar, which thinks that its life is over (just like the diagnosis of Schizophrenia), it can be resurrected with a brand new lease of life. We can think of the caterpillar living and breaking free from our old life.

 

The work will be sound, 3D projection, and performance art. Sound is the main element in this work as my condition includes hearing non-existent sounds like murmurs, distorted voices of persons speaking, creepy laughter, and sound effects felt through Schizophrenia that replay itself in my brain. A projected screen will show the visualization of my inner thoughts, and the body movements will be incorporated to represent my physical condition in the midst of breaking free from Schizophrenia.

 

My performance incorporates elastic cloth as an integral part of my physical expression, utilizing it as a metaphorical cocoon to represent the internal struggle associated with Schizophrenia. This choice of material symbolizes the journey of attempting to break free from the confines of the condition. Alongside visual depictions of Schizophrenia and my personal experiences with it, the elastic cloth serves as a conduit for conveying the Emotional depth of the condition.

 

Beyond merely a performance piece, it also functions as a transformative space, inviting individuals to immerse themselves in the complex emotions associated with Schizophrenia through the time-based projected visuals displayed and surrounding sound within the cocoon.