Atomu

Virtual reality interactive film 

Atlas V

Atomu places the user at the cyclical centre of a Kikuyu tribal myth from Kenya wherein man may become woman, and woman may become man, as they dance around the sacred Mugumo tree.

In this pioneering participatory movement piece directed by Shariffa Ali and Yetude Dada, seven people gather around the Mugumo fig tree – which in Kikuyu tribal culture represents transformation and rebirth in Kenya.

Users follow the ethereal and genderless Wacici who goes on a journey of self-discovery through different emotional states by shedding layers of their skin. This shedding is the physical marker of transformation and thus the gender transformation is abstracted in order to create a universal journey for all. Wacici depicts a society that acts as a mirror of the changing social, cultural, religious, political and ideological climate.

Atomu uses virtual reality, dance, music and 3D art to describe this metamorphosis and to create a sacred space where one, or many, may explore many versions of themselves. The viewer is part of the journey – and through it, we engage them in the possibilities of finding their own truth. Suddenly, out from the bushes jumps Wacici, a person who by going on their journey around the sacred tree has come to find the most honest version of themselves. Together, you will ascend with Wacici on this journey.

Showcased in partnership with Fak’ugesi Festival and Tshimologong Precinct.

Credits

Casting: Ira Mandela Siobhan, Sonya Cullingford

Key Collaborators: Antoine Cayrol, Rafael Pavon, Arnaud Colinart, Opeyemi Olukemi, Annick Jakobowicz, Stephen Buescher, Andrew Orkin, Banna Dasta, Toby Coffey, Steve Jelly, Simon Windsor, Akash Kushwaha, Derren Sinnott

Producers: Antoine Cayrol, Rafael Pavon, Arnaud Colinart, Opeyemi Olukemi, Annick Jakobowicz, Stephen Buescher, Andrew Orkin, Banna Dasta, Toby Coffey, Steve Jelly, Simon Windsor, Akash Kushwaha, Derren Sinnott

Co-Producers: Arnaud Colinart, Opeyemi Olukemi, Rafael Pavon, Annick Jakobowicz, Steve Jelly, Simon Windsor