The project explores sleep paralysis as a liminal state between sleep and wakefulness, reality and hallucination, control and complete helplessness. This state, where the body remains immobile but consciousness has already awakened, creates a terrifying rift between physical and psychological experience. The phenomenon is investigated not only as a medical or psychological occurrence but also as a powerful visual and emotional image.
«Altum silentium et sopor» — «Deep silence and lethargic sleep (oblivion).» [Suppressed sleep] [Sleep paralysis] «…And suddenly a chasm opened and the Abyss… Not the tail of a forest, nor a bird sings: Scatter your leaves: all the marsh is stagnant; Deep silence, sleep, and night hold everything.»
The title conveys the atmosphere of stillness and inner struggle characteristic of a state of sleep paralysis. It creates a sense of frozen time and inner peace that contrasts with the anxiety and fear experienced during this moment. In this way, the title emphasizes the duality and complexity of the phenomenon.
The exhibition «Altum silentium et sopor» unfolds in a liminal space—among empty rooms and corridors that recall a familiar place, whose purpose cannot be determined. Normally, one passes through such spaces without lingering, but here, the transition becomes a place of residence. This inability to complete the movement reflects sleep paralysis: the consciousness has awakened, but the body remains asleep.
