‘Spirit of Bermuda’ by Yagé Qüinn Silvera Xué

Photo & Audio Installation
24x21x14.8 cm | 3x30x42 cm
2024-Ongoing

‘Spirit of Bermuda’ marks the beginning of my journey into filmmaking, an endeavor that stems from a commitment to pursue my artistic vision with the same dedication I have employed in effecting change within my community. This project represents a pivotal moment where I confront the question of not just what I want to create, but also who I aspire to be as an artist and individual.

The centerpiece of this initiative is a visual music album, where each track will be visually represented in the context of my transformed living space, which serves as a consistent set throughout the series of music videos. Initially, in the short film "Spirit of Bermuda" featuring th track "Doll of My Own Design," the room is depicted in a state of disarray, symbolizing the mess and executive dysfunction that impedes the protagonist—myself (played by different actors).

This setting visually captures the initial challenges faced.
The narrative of "Spirit of Bermuda" unfolds within the confines of my room, which doubles as the physical and symbolic setting. The film explores an intense emotional struggle between a witch—my persona—and the spirit of the room, which embodies the mental and emotional
challenges I face, including depression and anxiety. The protagonist calls on the power of Chibrafruime, the Muisca god of war, to take the shape of a Jaguar and fight the monster.

After the initial film, the room's appearance stabilizes; the mess clears, but the vibrant, color-filled space remains, now serving as the backdrop for the witch's magical and visually stimulating home in subsequent videos. In the following music videos, we will explore th magical world I live in, also outside of my home. The second song, for example, “Luz de mi Voz que”, is about my aim to fight for financial growth by using my voice and believing in it. The song is an ode to the goddess Delilah, who in the film is leading me towards Chía, the Muisc goddess of the moon, for a transformative moon ritual.

Remodeling the room has involved multiple interconnected art projects, each deeply considered and reflective of my ongoing research into my indigenous Muisca heritage. This exploration is critical, especially given the scarcity and inaccessibility of information due to the destructive
impacts of colonization. These efforts underscore a confrontation with my spirituality while living in Europe, weaving together the threads of my identity, history, and spiritual beliefs into the fabric of the project.

Working on this project has been a battle in itself, as I navigate the complexities of managing time and space. My room, cluttered with unfinished projects and everyday items, reflects my ongoing struggle. Yet, each step forward in reshaping my environment is a step towards nurturing my soul. Through this artistic process, I have gained profound insights into my neurodivergence, understanding my needs for stability, order, safety, and beauty—elements vital
for my functioning and creativity.

‘Spirit of Bermuda’ is a holistic expression of my life's philosophy: that art and magic are not merely aspects of my life, but its very foundation.
This project is an artistic and existential inquiry into creating a life that truly reflects who I am and aspire to be.