Monolith # is a 20-minute interactive imagination composition designed for four participants around a reflective monolith structure. This participatory installation invites individuals to engage in a guided auditory experience through headphones. A calm and deliberate voice leads participants through a series of thoughts, actions, and movements, creating an intimate and introspective journey.
At the center of the installation stands a mirrored monolith, functioning as a "panopticon of reflection." This structure references the mysterious monoliths that appeared in various locations around the world just after the outbreak of COVID-19. Reflective on the outside and closed on the inside, the monolith encourages participants to consider their own reflections, both literally and metaphorically, as they engage in a contemporary sensory ritual.
During this experience, participants are invited to reflect on the social implications of social media algorithms and how these algorithms shape our interactions and perceptions in everyday life. The work prompts discussions about the ways in which technology influences human behavior and the societal consequences of these influences.
Through this installation, Heremans seeks to create a space for contemplation and dialogue, allowing participants to explore the intersection of art, technology, and society. The work fosters a sense of shared vulnerability and introspection, inviting participants to connect with themselves and the broader themes presented in the piece.