The idea behind the installation was to act as a reflection of the lives of the locals and of those filmed: the fishermen, the seamen and their families.  By showing them on film, they could see who they are, share what they do, through my eyes using the video camera.

The installation sought to start a discussion within the local community. An observed phenomenon is that neither the fishermen nor the seamen share the experiences they gain. The international seafarers do not share their stories of other worlds and the experiences they have when on board international vessels and interact with different cultures. The same goes for the local fishermen whose families do not have a clue about the risks they face on a daily basis when diving up to 50 meters deep and deal with the natural elements. It was important to emphasize on the importance of sharing stories and experiences with one another: families and members of the community. When a community discusses and analyzes their circumstance, they will also feel more ‘in control’ of their situation- this relating to the Philippines as a developing country and all the issues that come with it.

Hopefully it will provide an opportunity for the local community to experience ‘the arts’. In order to achieve development as an individual and as a community it is necessary to place importance on economic issues to enable themselves to provide the basic necessities. It is also essential to grow on a different level.  The arts are embedded in the Filipino culture through music, singing and dancing but the installation suggests to the viewer to find their own creative way of self-expression. To open doors, not to turn everyone into an artist, but to be capable to see things through a different light. It highlights the power of observation and self-analysis.

The importance of linking self-reflection, community dialogue and art is, that this setting has the potential of triggering an attitude, a spirit of creativity. Creativity needs to be understood in its broadest sense. Dialogue and creativity are linked because they reflect the ability to reason and to question and to find new creative ways of dealing with everyday, economic, and social reality.

The hope is that the film, as part of the installation, triggers participation of the viewer and the characters in the film - who in this case are the locals.