ABOUT

AFAR is a series of inter-related, multi-discipline arts projects by Opher Thomson. The works explore our changing relationship with the places we live and the natural world at large, with the hope of better understanding the deep feelings of separation and disconnect that seem so prevalent during this rapid and dramatic transformation of ‘home’. It is a project of listening, above all, in which the geographical reading of illustrative places is informed first and foremost by the voices of those who experience it. In turn, the works born from this process aim to encourage a wider, pluralistic conversation that allows the discussion to evolve. Film screenings, book presentations, and exhibitions are often therefore organised as participatory events, workshops or seminars, so as to allow this ongoing listening process to flourish and indeed shape future pieces, while also converting those distances into connections. As such each piece acts as a kind of invitation, and asks:

where might we meet?

* * * * *

OPHER THOMSON interprets geographical spaces and perceived places in an attempt to better understand their role in shaping social dynamics and relationships. He works with words, images, maps and sounds to translate these sites into spaces for reflection and discussion. His research is especially concerned with questions of periphery and the potential for new forms of centre, as well as reconsidering what home might mean today.

His documentary films have been screened at important international film festivals such as Tallinn Black Nights, Torino Film Festival and Camerimage, and the feature length The New Wild: Life in the Abandoned Lands went on to be distributed theatrically throughout Italy before being published in book format. His other books include the novel Travels Through Absence and the photo book The Place Between. Increasingly however, new works are being released less as finished products and more as ongoing explorations with greater emphasis on cultural events, meeting points and choral dialogue. His latest research Forrest has already taken loose form through photography exhibitions, installations, guided walks, public readings and sonic performances which anticipate a photo essay and series of writings on belonging and longing — a kind of homeless book — Berth Songs.

Aside his own research, OPHER THOMSON is also involved in various social and community projects. Working alongside sociologists, geographers, architects, urban planners, social workers, volunteers, artists and locals, he offers seminars and workshops to help develop collective readings of space that can better inform projects and enrich participatory processes.

CONTACT

mail@christopherthomson.net

FOR SCREENINGS OF THE NEW WILD:

Distribution in Italy | Distribuzione in Italia | Filmverteiler in Italien: Tucker Film |

To organise a screening outside of Italy: Opher Thomson

eine Vorführung in Österreich oder Deutschland zu organisieren: Michael Beismann