In My Absence

In My Absence takes the viewer closer to the physical world of so-called 'absence’ epilepsy. Science states that during an absence seizure there is no consciousness. Makers Maartje Nevejan and Niki Smit question this hypothesis with In My Absence. They asked children the question: Where are you during you temporary absence? In the process, they found words and images – a new language - for the experience that millions of children have on a daily basis. This way, they changed the way scientists look at the phenomenon. This multi-sensory installation takes viewers closer to the physical world of absence epilepsy, so they can feel how vulnerable reality is.

In My Absence is part of a larger project, including a documentary (also competing for a Golden Calf), a series of installations and panel discussions. It premièred in 2018 at the DOK Leipzig festival.