The Believers is an experimental video installation by young Singaporean photographer Dave Lim. The wry and quietly observant video centres on rituals practised by the average Singaporean, which Dave has been documenting for the last three years.
These include not only services at churches and temples, and religious processions like for Thaipusam, but also a range of secular practices from Singaporean pastimes like prawning and betting on horse races, to high-energy environments like spin classes with flashing lights, and moshing at concerts.
In juxtaposing the ceremonial and the everyday, The Believers gently teases out commonalities across different practices, establishing a sense of kinship and alluding to a common humanity.
As a non-religious person, Dave had considered trances a performative act, until he witnessed for himself spirit mediums helping a teenager break out of a trance.
Dave Lim is a recipient of the Objectifs Documentary Award 2019 (Emerging Category).
Opening Reception: Thu 12 Mar, 7pm to 9pm
Venue: Objectifs, Lower Gallery
When: 13 Mar - 19 Apr 2020,
