Overhead

Elijah El Kahale, a photographer and interdisciplinary artist, explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the human psyche through a unique artistic approach. Using an overhead projector and paint, El Kahale delves into the interplay between memory and dreams in the context of this global health crisis. The pandemic’s disruptive arrival in 2021 led to widespread loss and upheaval, which El Kahale translates into his art. Inspired by the moments before sleep, when a single thought can awaken us, he captures the collective state of rumination caused by the pandemic. El Kahale’s innovative technique involves projecting images and layering them with paint. This juxtaposition symbolizes the contrast between the unchanging nature of memory captured by the camera and the liberating essence of painting, which he considers “true perception.” Rather than rejecting memory outright, he overlays dreams onto the pandemic experience, showcasing the capacity to reshape recollections, even though the camera’s record remains unalterable. In a world seeking solace amidst chaos, El Kahale’s work highlights the transformative power of art and the need to find new paths forward. Through his exploration, he not only superimposes dreams onto reality but also offers a visual testament to the resilience of the human spirit, emphasizing the role of art in navigating unprecedented challenges.