Folding a Lecture
Becoming would mean ownership and appropriation, but the interesting aspect lies in the absence of a fixed, permanent, solid, settled, I love it, this is due to the materiality of origami, the paper, which is constantly unfolding and folding back on itself.
Well, this practice enables me to navigate the matter of existence, self, and life. Isn't this what we anticipate from rituals and devotion? It has become a ritualistic practice for me, offering relaxation and a moment to connect with my soul, if it indeed exists. This makes me really happy to make Lilium Origami together with others as a commemorative gesture for my beloved mother. I want to give her body a new life by folding and unfolding its medical reports. My desire is to once again have her physical presence in my life, to own it.
A Lecture Performance by Nazanin Bahrami
at Gießen University ,Germany
July 2023
This lecture performance, the inaugural chapter of the "mourning trilogy" by the Un-formula performance group, delves into the profound impact of personal loss and the critical issue of patients' rights. Inspired by the harrowing experience of caring for a mother afflicted with terminal cancer, the performance offers a poignant reflection on the challenges of navigating a healthcare system that often prioritizes hope over honesty.
The performance delves into the devastating consequences of medical professionals withholding crucial information from patients, particularly in end-of-life care. By sharing personal anecdotes and artistic expression, the performance aims to raise awareness about the importance of transparent and compassionate communication between healthcare providers and patients. It underscores the necessity of empowering patients to make informed decisions about their own care, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
Through a blend of storytelling, movement, and visual elements, the performance invites the audience to contemplate the complex interplay between personal grief and broader societal issues. It serves as a catalyst for dialogue and reflection, encouraging viewers to consider their own experiences with illness, loss, and the healthcare system.