Ghost In The Shell ( Art Video)

This conceptual art video portrays a nuanced exploration of identity, spirituality, and societal expectations through the imagery of a figure adorned in an Afghan woman's burka and then mirrored. The title itself evokes notions of intangibility, the ephemeral nature of existence, and the concept of a "ghostly" presence within the confines of societal constructs. the choice to wear the burka (found in a charity shop), traditionally associated with the veiling of women in certain cultures, serves as a poignant symbol of the subordination and suppression of female identity within patriarchal systems. Manipulating the fabric over the head is symbolic of the struggle to assert one's individuality within the confines of societal expectations. The introduction of a red fabric was made as a representation of the pain and ‘blood’ spilt by the people who do not conform to rigid systems of Gender Identification, past and present. The soundtrack of a medieval monastic choir ‘Virgines Caste’ further enhances the thematic depth of the piece. The haunting melodies sung by the choir evoke a sense of spiritual longing and transcendence, echoing the quest for enlightenment and self-realisation. In drawing parallels between the title "Ghost in the Shell," the concept of "no self" in enlightenment philosophy, and the subordination of women forced to conceal their identities behind cloth, viewers are invited to contemplate the complexities of identity, agency, and liberation. Just as the ghostly presence persists within the shell, so too does the essence of individuality persist within the confines of societal norms and expectations. Ultimately, "Ghost in the Shell" serves as a commentary on the struggle for autonomy and self-expression in the face of systemic oppression, inviting viewers to reflect on the profound intersections of gender, spirituality, and societal constructs.