An Eastern 'Journey'
Feb. 27, 2001
A film installation covering Eastern concepts of spiritual fulfillment and a
love story comparable to Romeo and Juliet come together in The Wayfarer's
Journey at the Arizona State University Art Museum Experimental Gallery,
Cady and Tyler malls in Tempe.
Interpreting The Seven Valleys, a mystical Baha'i treatise on attaining
spiritual fulfillment through detachment, artist Gita Farid's film is inspired
by the tale of an Eastern wayfarer, Manjun, on his quest to be reunited with
his beloved Layli, from whom he has been separated.
Traveling through various metaphorical valleys, the wayfarer reaches a state
of pure conscience and utter spiritual thrall, a realization that occurs at
the end of Manjun's journey. Farid's film focuses on one of the seven
valleys - the Valley of Knowledge. The Chandler resident says that the story
is about an Eastern Romeo and Juliet who find each other by chance rather
than design.
"It's about detachment and about giving into fate," Farid said. "The first
time I read the story, I cried. The story is so beautiful. Every time I've
read it since it has had the same effect. For me it resonates."
A musical soundtrack that dramatically expresses the emotions of this
non-narrated work accompanies the projected image. The work, originally
shot in 16mm film, will be presented in video format.
The Wayfarer's Journey will be on display through May 5. Gallery
hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
Admission is free. Information: (480) 965-2787.
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