A new memoryscape, in collaboration with The Museum of Dead Words, an interactive hip-hop theatre show about communication in the Age of The Internet that I’ve been curating since 2017. I interviewed the show's writer and performer, Dyalekt, and created a piece about Racist/sm, one of the 11 words in his museum's exhibit.

You gotta preach to the choir so they know what to sing (Racist/sm, as told by Dyalekt for the Museum of Dead Words), Translation No. 2

Archival pigment inks and mixed media on aluminum, mounted on wood

16 x 36 x 1.5”

2020

This is the first of a series of visual works to be created in this way, establishing a permanent collection to accompany the Museum of Dead Words. Through the telling of individual stories, these memoryscapes will illustrate how failure to communicate contributes to the breakdown of community. We will be interviewing people affected by the words and ideas in this museum as a way to heal together and inspire empathy in a world living Online.

This work feels especially relevant now. With our 2020 tour dates being cancelled or going virtual because of COVID-19, we find ourselves where it all began — Online. And it’s where we all find ourselves seeking deep connection now. 

Dyalekt’s research into internet comments began in 2016 after numerous devolving dialogues about racism. He found these misconceptions to be exacerbated by online conversation, where the typed word has no rhythm, tone, or personality. He chose 11 words, made rap songs about how they died, and wrote a play to explain his research. Through its evolving reflection on the culture it surrounds, this show has become about more than 11 words; it is a multi-disciplinary, experimental town hall experience. And regardless of the bizarre circumstances, the show - the conversation - must go on. 

We had a great meeting today. The momentum cannot be shaken. The ideas keep coming. It affirms that this is a worthy pursuit. Dyalekt’s passion to connect people through constructive art and dialogue continues to inspire me. I am so proud of this dedicated team and honored to be a part of this work. I cannot help but to think of my brother as this brilliant orchestration continues to unfold. Life is beautiful, cyclical, intentional! To be continued! It’ 2 am!