Acorán [2021]

Video, experimental, 2021, Full HD, 1920x1080, 7'14" (loop)

The film 'Acorán' by visual artist Nicky Assmann and experimental sound collective Rotor shows a slow moving trajectory through the clouds of Mount Teide on the volcanic island of Tenerife. The continuous movement of the shot emphasizes the Sun, which becomes an important actor due to the infrared filter used during the recording of the footage. The disquieting soundscape that accompanies the film is the outcome of field recordings and electronic experiments composed especially for the film.

The title 'Acorán' originates from the now extinct language of the Guanches, the indigenous inhabitants of Tenerife, before being colonized by Spain centuries ago. Acorán refers to their ancient God who, according to legend, saves the Sun and brings back the light, after being imprisoned in the volcano that plunged the world into darkness. During filming, the volcano on the neighboring island La Palma erupts, giving new life to this local saga.

The intense red image arising from the infrared filter used to film, shows a volcanic landscape that seems to be on fire and slowly disappears into a red void, unintentionally becoming a metaphor for the turbulent predicament in which the earth finds itself.

This film is made possible through Klankvorm with the generous support of Creative Industries Fund NL, City of Rotterdam , Droom en Daad Foundation and Mondriaan Fund