About

IN A NAME, a fragment from the famous lines, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet." --From Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2)

Project Statement

In response to Shakespeare’s timeless query, “What’s in a name?”, we assert that a name holds profound significance, encapsulating a personal history that shapes one’s identity and societal place. Contrary to reducing individuals to mere labels, this project aims to explore the transformative power of names in fostering empathy and connection.

At its core, this project addresses contemporary challenges to civility and human interaction. In an era marked by societal divisions, it seeks to reintroduce respect and civility through the act of personal introduction. Participants were invited to share the origin, significance, and meaning behind their names in recorded video introductions. These narratives were gathered through mutual acquaintances, creating a web of personal connections that span diverse demographics including age, gender, ethnicity, belief, and economic status.

The physical installation centered around audio sound bites from each participant and over 1000 polaroid images, presented in a format designed to honor each participant’s unique story. The polaroid images are installed in numerical sequence on the walls with the audio playing quietly, filling the room with only one voice audible at any given moment—a deliberate reflection of the respect accorded to each speaker. This setup invites viewers to appreciate the diversity of individual identities while recognizing shared human experiences.

Fundamentally, this project posits that sharing one’s name is an act of transformation—from anonymity to familiarity, from isolation to community. By acknowledging each person’s history and belonging within a broader social fabric, we aim to inspire greater mutual respect and understanding among participants and viewers alike.