IRIN AJO | 2023
Inspired by Yorùbá cosmology, the works of Oyèrónkẹ́ Oyěwùmí, Octavia E. Butler and more, IRIN AJO posits the adoption of a “Yorùbá world sense” in a sonic and spirit-led voyage across time, space and the archives.
Oscillating through and between the “real” and the “mythological”, this multi-channel moving image piece showcases how speculative fiction, fantasy and non-linear temporality are integral components of African storytelling.
The film follows a protagonist - lucidly referred to as 'The Traveller' - on a voyage across future, past and present-day Lagos, Nigeria. Called forth (and back again) by sound, she uncovers artefacts, encounters lovers, foes and friends, embracing new experiences and a knowledge that ultimately transforms her.
IRIN AJO was created during study at the Goldsmith's Artists' Film & Moving Image masters programme. It was showcased as a multi-channel moving image and sound installation, accompanied by a mixed-media sculptural piece and an additional audio piece titled 'Real vs. Surreal'. The exhibitions took place in July 2023 at the Goldsmiths Postgraduate Degree Show. View documentation here.