Video Still from Back in the Island. Image Courtesy of Amanda Valle.
Back in Island is a short film exploring the creative journey of artist Amanda Valle as she returns to her home in the Dominican Republic. Following an emotionally draining period, Amanda seeks comfort in the local culture by immersing herself in the colours and textures that were once so familiar. A journey of self discovery, the short film became the main source of inspiration for the artist’s new series composed of twelve paintings. “I’d imagined for quite some time what it would be like to return home after living abroad – the astonishing scenery, the cultural confrontation, the emotional traction and the aggravated sense of belonging. I came back aware of the change of settings, knowing that the living environment grew older, but with a burning need of discovering the unvarying spirit of our culture” says Valle.
Selected in over 20 international film festivals, including Aesthetica Short Film Festival, The Fine Arts Film Festival, Split Videoart Festival, and taking home the New Generation Award at Berlin Commercial, SLEEK caught up with the artist to discuss her latest project and working with the emotional state.
Video Still from Back in the Island. All Image Courtesy of Amanda Valle.
Your short film ‘Back in the Island’ explores your journey returning back to your home, the Dominican Republic after a “emotionally draining period” in your life. Why is it important to go back to our roots in times of hardship?
That’s a mystery. We end up going back to our roots, as I believe we are trying to find comfort in things, people and places that we find familiar. Somewhere where we feel safe and where we can be vulnerable. It won’t be the same for everyone, as some may not find home a safe place, but in my case I believe you can always find yourself there and work with it to find a cure to your hardship.
Did you achieve what you wanted in your journey back? How is it reflected in your film?
I achieved more than I actually expected and imagined! The film ended up portraying a lot more than I initially thought. The connection between the story and myself grew stronger while filming. It definitely became a bit of a therapeutic process.
Can you tell us about your journey through self-discovery?
It was very deep, a little painful even though the process had a happy ending. I became more confident with my work and that makes me feel better. I saw myself in a better place with better energy. I’m still on that journey, everyday is a day of self-discovery.
Video Still from Back in the Island. All Image Courtesy of Amanda Valle.
Do you think we can only truly see once we have removed ourselves from the environment? Are there other ways?
Isolation always helps, but we need the environment and what comes with it. It’s the only way to confront our fears, to create and to heal.
What is your advice on finding deeper connections to our emotional state?
Let it be. Work with your emotional state, let it manifest without judging your feelings, use it to write and make something of it. Search for whatever moves your curiosity and memories. Be brave.
Your work spans between painting and filmmaking. Why is it important for you to express artistically through the different mediums?
Self expression doesn’t have a medium. Art is converting all those ideas and feelings into work that cannot be limited. I like to express myself in all ways possible. For me this is a necessity.