The nature of storytelling through video naturally has a way of romanticizing truth and fiction. As a designer, I think it imperative to consider the lens of the reader. I put myself in their shoes and together we ask: Why was this particular video served to me specifically? What are the correlations that the artist wants me to make? Where does truth lie when all we have are inputs and outputs?

On the other hand, as an artist, I want to purposefully hide my intentions behind unclear rhetoric, hoping I’ll reach out to a broader wider audience, and bridging a language of solidarity.

 

Proposal

Ara Laylo proposes a new series of video works, which capture Honolulu’s everyday life in a rapidly changing urban environment, through a series of 30-60 second videos shot on her mobile device peppered with text slogans and quotes; a familiar echo of social media’s visual language.

Inspired by advertising, marketing slogans, billboards, in particular the famous Hawaii Rent-All signage at the intersection of Beretania and McCully.

Exploring Themes

Haves and Have nots

I am abundant

I am (not) secure

I am (not)  Happy

I am not suffering

I am Hungry

Traffic (some collated from different subjects including from my own)

Water

Play

Work

Walking

Eating

Stillness

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TO MAKE WRONG / RIGHT / NOW

Honolulu Biennial 2019 title is drawn from the poem Manifesto by participating Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) artist ‘Imaikalani Kalahele.