This Too Shall Pass

Presented simultaneously, and in varied adaptations across multiple locations in Frankfurt in 2021 – including the River Main, Römer Courtyard, and Dreikönigskirche – the multichannel sound installation This Too Shall Pass is an immersive reflection on collective memory, resilience, and the transient nature of global events. At the core of this installation lies a profound lyrical foundation, meticulously derived from an extensive data mining analysis of pivotal news headlines from the tumultuous year of 2020. The keywords extracted from these headlines serve a dual function, both conceptual and aesthetic, anchoring the installation deeply in the shared emotional landscape of that year.

Musically, these carefully curated keywords inspired a poignant composition, transforming reminders of global challenges into an evocative auditory experience. The soundscape, disseminated through multiple channels, envelops visitors, prompting contemplation and reflection on the fleeting yet impactful nature of historical events.

Complementing the auditory experience, these same keywords were artistically reimagined as striking graphic designs, woven meticulously into textiles and banners by skilled artisans. The handwoven fabrics and banners bring a tangible dimension to the installation, visually interpreting the year’s narratives in vibrant threads and intricate patterns. This textile element not only augments the visual allure but also reinforces the installation’s multisensory engagement, creating an environment where visitors simultaneously experience the temporal, auditory, and tactile dimensions of memory and history.

This Too Shall Pass ultimately invites viewers to reflect on humanity’s enduring capacity for resilience and adaptation, acknowledging that even the most challenging moments eventually become woven into the broader tapestry of collective human experience.