The Artist Explains: iskwē - 'Night Danger'
Ever wondered what life would be like if people came with warning signs? iskwē and director Elena Vazintaris talk to us about the powerful visuals for ‘Night Danger’ taken from iskwē’s new album ’Acākosīk‘.
Where was the video for 'Night Danger' filmed?
This video was filmed in Toronto, Canada, at a music venue called Longboat Hall
How does the video connect with the song?
Well, both the video and the song are meant to reflect an element of tension and release surrounding the sensations of love, passion, emotion and struggle. This is a tune written about each of those feelings, with a bit of a pushback on what is often considered the "normal" way of being and feeling in a relationship. I wrote this song after seeing a series of road signs pass by me on the highway, with the word NIGHT DANGER, and I thought to myself "imagine if people came with those sorts of warning signs?". We often see them, the warning signs, not because someone is bad, but just because what they will bring/offer can be bigger than what we feel prepared for. That's what this song and video are about - passion, and how we dance through it.
Do you have any behind the scenes stories you could share with us?
This was a wonderful set to be on, my favourite so far! Everything ran really smoothly, and everyone was so lovely and invested in the production. My favourite moment, however, was watching the two dancers, Jade and Chantelle, film their pieces. They danced so beautifully, and to watch the choreography uninterrupted - you could hear a pin drop with each take. I literally teared up each time.
Could you tell us about the ideas/ themes/ imagery used?
Elena Vazintaris, ‘Night Danger’ Director said "In our first conversations, iskwē expressed that she wanted something darker, more mysterious for her next video. I dove into images of the supernatural, chiaroscuro art of Caravaggio. Numerology and the power of three and what they often symbolise: Faith – Wisdom – Courage and the Birth - Life -Death Cycle. Themes, events, necessities, that every relationship endures. Collaborating with Maya Bankovic, our amazing DP, we were able to create a sort of tunnel vision, dream like environment for the video. Red symbolising power, energy, danger. Grief, death in her portrait in black and the floral crown: a symbol for life and growth. I decided to shoot her more as a moving portrait bringing attention to her eyes, her mouth and her movements. The dancers, choreographed by the wonderful David Norsworthy, are versions of her. They flock by her side as a gesture of strength and support. The three, connected, referencing the power of three".
What do you hope people take away from watching the video?
Elena Vazintaris, Night Danger Director said "There is a simplicity to the video that, juxtaposed to the powerful delivery of iskwē's vocals, her performance, the performance of Jade and Chantelle leave you transfixed. I’m hoping the viewer remains in the emotional space ‘Night Danger’ evokes. You could be a version of iskwē, devastatingly strong and vulnerable, pouring her heart out or you are on the receiving end as you watch her unleash her entire being unapologetically".
Interview by Karla Harris