Questioning the paradoxical nature of freedom in times of quarantine and virtual isolation, Where From Here, takes you on a remote correspondence between Hudson, New York and Helsinki. The exchange between Lenore Malen and Samir Bhowmik takes the form of video performances and readings. Seeking inspiration from a conversation between Theodore Adorno and Ernst Bloch (1989) stating that the hardening of the social apparatus has rendered people incapable of conceiving attainable possibilities as such, Where From Here highlights the hardening of technologies ensuing in a world where souls can easily be uploaded and downloaded. How does one resist the dominant systems of digital society when quarantined? Lenore Malen and Samir Bhowmik brilliantly outline the paradox residing in communications enabled by virtual spaces and yet physically restricted. One seems to be tricked into the idea of being together with others when their isolated body feels the exact opposite. One is physically absent and yet digitally present, and it is that constant presence of each other’s absence that is brought to life by Where From Here. 

Together Alone 2020: https://www.togetheralonefi.com/round-ii-selected-projects/where-from-here

Performed by DALLAS ULLA
Written & Directed by SAMIR BHOWMIK
Cinematography & Editing CHRISTOPHER THOMAS
Sound Design VILJAMI LEHTONEN
Focus Puller & Camera Assistant ROXANA SADVOKASSOVA

Samir Bhowmik, "Performing Care in Extractive Landscapes," Part 1: Waste Landfills. Collateral Journal. Collision 76. University of Hasselt, PXL-MAD, April 2022. https://www.collateral-journal.com/index.php?collision=76