The accomplished artist and musician, Anohni, was born in Chichester in 1971. At the age of 10, she relocated to California with her family, and later moved to Manhattan in 1990 to pursue her studies in experimental theater at NYU. Through her involvement in the vibrant New York performance scene, she eventually formed the band Antony and the Johnsons. In 2000, they released their self-titled debut album, followed by the critically acclaimed “I Am a Bird Now,” which won the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2005. Following a ten-year break, during which Anohni pursued her solo work and received an Academy Award nomination, she reunited with the Johnsons under the name Anohni and the Johnsons. Their latest album, “My Back Was a Bridge for You to Cross,” has recently been released.
1. TVArnold (Netflix)
I am thoroughly impressed by the ingeniously crafted biopic of the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger. He brings such joy and humor to the screen! There’s one particular scene where he candidly shares his thoughts: “In my younger days, I used to notice a slight droop under my pecs, and I thought, ‘Maybe I should consider surgery.’ But now that I’m in my 70s, my focus is solely on survival. When I look in the mirror, I can’t help but say to myself, ‘What the fuck?'” His words struck a chord with me, as they perfectly encapsulate my own sentiments.
2. Music
“What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye
Marvin Gaye at Golden West Studios in Los Angeles, California, 1973. Photograph: Jim Britt/Getty Images
The recent 50th anniversary of this album holds immense significance for me. It has been a profound source of inspiration, as it beautifully captures the various facets of global shatteredness through more than ten compelling tracks. Gaye unleashed the incredible power of resilience in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, drawing from the rich tradition of black American music. In this groundbreaking record, he fearlessly confronted political and environmental issues, speaking profound truths in accessible language. It’s astonishing how his message remains relevant even today.
3. Photography
“The Price of Peace in Afghanistan” by Mads Nissen
Women and children beg for bread outside a bakery in central Kabul, Afghanistan, 14 January 2022. Photograph: Mads Nissen, Politiken/Panos Pictures/World Press Photo 2023
In the World Press Photo yearbook 2023, Danish photographer Mads Nissen showcases a series of impactful images from Afghanistan. One particular photograph captures a group of women, fully covered, sitting outside a bread shop in the early morning, desperately begging for sustenance. It makes me contemplate the repercussions of the American occupation of Afghanistan over the past twenty years, especially for the children, girls, and LGBTQ+ individuals who grew up under these circumstances, exposed to the possibilities of freedom through the internet. And yet, America abruptly withdrew, leaving me with a sense of disgust. What fate awaits these vulnerable young minds? How could my country turn its back on them?
4. Place
Washington Square Park, Manhattan
People gather in Washington Square Park after the Pride parade in Manhattan, 2023. Photograph: David Dee Delgado/Reuters
For the past two decades, Washington Square Park has been marred by a heavy-handed and authoritarian police presence. However, since the outbreak of Covid-19, the police have largely shifted their focus away from downtown Manhattan, opting to oppress communities in the surrounding boroughs instead. As a result, a remarkable transformation has taken place. Young people from all corners of the city have come together in fresh and innovative ways, revitalizing the park. Visiting Washington Square Park feels reminiscent of the vibrant atmosphere of the 1960s. It is now the most captivating it has been since my early days in Manhattan during the early 90s.
5. Art
“Evolution of Fearlessness” by Lynette Wallworth at the Muziekgebouw, Amsterdam
From the Evolution of Fearlessness by Lynette Wallworth. Photograph: hollandfestival.nl
I had the pleasure of experiencing Lynette Wallworth’s mesmerizing installation at the Holland festival. Originally showcased in 2006, Wallworth interviewed women refugees residing in Sydney from various parts of the world, compiling their stories in a book that chronicled the unimaginable traumas they endured. Yet in this installation, silence takes precedence. You are confronted with a projection of a woman slowly approaching a glass screen. As you place your hand on the screen, she gazes back at you, wordlessly. It is an incredibly beautiful and profound moment.
6. Hobby
Water observation
North Sea waves crashing against Tynemouth Lighthouse, April 2021. Photograph: Owen Humphreys/PA
I derive great pleasure from observing water in its various forms. Considering that our bodies are made up of approximately 70% water, it fascinates me to reflect on the movement and power of this vital element, particularly the oceans. Recently, it was reported that the North Sea’s temperature is up to 5°C higher than normal, which could lead to a catastrophic decline in fish and shellfish populations. Many believed that the waters surrounding the UK and Ireland would be spared from the devastating effects of the climate crisis, but sadly, they too are succumbing. The survival of our oceans is crucial for the future of humanity.
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