This body of work reflects how one is experiencing existential angst — trying to find one’s true self and identity in a world where one doesn't belong. Various characters reflect myself, my culture, and the world in which I actually exist; the power of humor is used to take the edge off the suffering and show the meaningless in it all. This is done by exaggerating and embracing the shortcomings of the naive looking characters as they, too, don’t really fit into the video format, dialogue, or expectation of the cultural traditions.
By using accessible video tools and editing tools from mobile phones and arts and crafts sculpture, the visual language is meant to reflect the popular culture we are currently surrounded by. The vibrant colors, which are mixed with visuals from nature, and often random special effects, reflect how being a Norwegian expat, who lived my adult life in New York and worked with pop culture as an art director in advertising has influenced my identity. Or lack of it.
Year Created: 2021
A Norse Universe
Video Narratives:
This is a series of two videos based on Asbjørnsen & Moe’s collected Norwegian fairy tales from the 1800s. Social media icons, snapchat filters and electronic music, brings the messages into today's surreal world of storytelling within the digital ecosystem. By incorporating myself into pre-existing fables, stories and roles where men traditionally were the protagonists and antagonists, I am finding a new way to fit into the world I struggle to make sense of. Employing humor, and by embracing myself as an imperfect performer, results in personal empowerment.
The Billy Goat
The Devil and the Boy