Inventory of Lost Books is an impactful series of four immersive, participatory audio-visual installations that delve into the ongoing narrative of book suppression throughout history, with a particular focus on contemporary threats to intellectual freedom in the United States (2024-2026). Collaborating with composer Christophe Priessing and video artist Liviu Pasare, this installation series articulates our complex relationship with knowledge, exploring the evolution of documentation and its significance in both past and present contexts.
Each installation can function individually or as part of a larger collection, providing flexibility for various presentation environments. By integrating video, sound, lighting, and sculptural elements, we aim to raise awareness around the precariousness of books and free thought, inviting visitors to engage with profound questions regarding knowledge, identity, and cultural heritage.
Inventory of Lost Books is a dynamic exploration of the fragility and importance of knowledge, aimed at provoking critical dialogue around censorship and the preservation of culture. By engaging visitors through these immersive installations, we hope to leave them pondering their relationship with books, the power dynamics of knowledge, and the ongoing narrative of intellectual freedom in contemporary society. Each chapter serves not only as a standalone reflection but as a part of a broader call to action against the erasure of ideas and histories.
Chapter 1: Stacks
CHICAGO AUG 2026
Chapter 2: The Weight of Silence
CHICAGO AUG 2026
Chapter 3: Controlled Burn
CHICAGO AUG 2026
Chapter 4: Pulped
CLEVELAND SEPT 2026
AMANDA LOVE