D i s / c o n n e c t i o n
D i s / c o n n e c t i o n explores the notion of a homeland and identity. Exploring the spiritual connection with a second homeland that accompanies transnationalism, this work dissects ones sense of self to it's descendants, culture and birth whilst using the body as an expressive medium.
A connection to a homeland is not necessarily formed through first hand experience, a parent passes on ties with each generation allowing a bond to that homeland whilst creating disconnection and reconnection with their current homeland. Two identities are formed with a sense of being loyal and identifying to both.
This exhibition aims to create conversations about multi-culturalism and heritage in Australia’s current society.
Drawing on my own experience of being born in Australia to an Australian mother and to a Dutch father, through my birthplace I am Australian yet my identity has been influenced by the combined cultures of my parents that they exposed me to. My father's teachings of my family's homeland, the traditions we celebrated whilst growing up in a heavily influenced European home strengthened my ties to the Netherlands.
Due to the early passing of my grandparents I did not meet them, the connection with my Dutch descendants was lost due to the distance and my father rarely spoke the language in Australia. A strong signifier and personal connection to my grandparents and their homeland were the Delft Blue ceramics around my childhood home.
Through my Australian birth, Dutch descendants and multi-cultural upbringing I identify as having two homelands, I am a transnational.
An attempt to connect with my homeland in 2013 left me partially displaced. Yet one day I was standing by the sea in Rotterdam and I felt the cold wind pierce through my jacket and my skin, I felt in it my bones, I felt Holland in my bones. Those words materialised in my mind and I felt that my spiritual self was truly in its homeland.
This project is a dialogue on generational transnationalism, the effects and experiences of 1st generation Australians and its relevance. These themes have weight in today's society and a second homeland resonates within many therefor regardless of nationality there is a deeper understanding and connection to this project.