An Eastern 'Journey'

Feb. 27, 2001

A film installation covering Eastern concepts of spiritual fulfillment and a love story comparable to Romeo and Juliet come together in The Wayfarer's Journey at the Arizona State University Art Museum Experimental Gallery, Cady and Tyler malls in Tempe.

Interpreting The Seven Valleys, a mystical Baha'i treatise on attaining spiritual fulfillment through detachment, artist Gita Farid's film is inspired by the tale of an Eastern wayfarer, Manjun, on his quest to be reunited with his beloved Layli, from whom he has been separated.

Traveling through various metaphorical valleys, the wayfarer reaches a state of pure conscience and utter spiritual thrall, a realization that occurs at the end of Manjun's journey. Farid's film focuses on one of the seven valleys - the Valley of Knowledge. The Chandler resident says that the story is about an Eastern Romeo and Juliet who find each other by chance rather than design.

"It's about detachment and about giving into fate," Farid said. "The first time I read the story, I cried. The story is so beautiful. Every time I've read it since it has had the same effect. For me it resonates."

A musical soundtrack that dramatically expresses the emotions of this non-narrated work accompanies the projected image. The work, originally shot in 16mm film, will be presented in video format.

The Wayfarer's Journey will be on display through May 5. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Admission is free. Information: (480) 965-2787.