An Award-Winning Triumph in Italy
The film “Raddbandaharpa,” featuring the poetry of Hlín Leifsdóttir, directed by Alkistis Kafetzi and Maria Salouvardou, has won the “Il Premio Hombres Videopoesia 2024” competition in Pereto, Italy. Hlín’s self-read Icelandic poem not only clinched the award for the best poetry film but was also recognized for its overall artistic excellence and outstanding soundtrack. The film’s music was praised as the best audio composition of the event.
From Athens to Dublin: A Journey of Impact
The visual poem was initially showcased at the International Video Poetry Festival in Athens’ Empros Theater, where it was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. Hlín, an opera singer based in Athens, added a layer of live vocal performance to the presentation. Following its success in Athens, the film was selected for screening at the Bloomsday Film Festival held at the James Joyce Centre in Dublin, Ireland.
A Powerful Narrative of Women’s Voices
“Raddbandaharpa” delves into the historical silencing of women’s voices, portraying a woman reclaiming her voice by creating a harp from severed vocal cords. Her vow to never cease playing, even as her fingers bleed, symbolizes a defiance against the oppressive silence of centuries. The high notes of the female voice, long exiled, break not only glass but the metaphorical glass ceiling, raining down stars of unexplored possibilities.
The Rise of Filmpoetry as an Art Form
Filmpoetry, or the art of combining poetry and film, is gaining traction as a significant art form. According to Hlín, it often involves collaboration between poets and filmmakers, where the soundscape plays a crucial role. This medium acts like a translation of poetry for a broader audience, often revealing the essence of poetry to those who may not traditionally engage with it.
Bridging Cultural Divides
Hlín’s interactions in Athens and beyond reveal that many people have discovered a love for poetry through such events. This includes individuals who cannot read but seek the auditory experience of poetry, highlighting the importance of such gatherings. In an era of diminishing reading skills and short attention spans, the synergy between art forms is vital.
Expanding Horizons and Deepening Roots
Mixed art forms not only enhance cultural equity and the spread of poetry but also present challenges and rewards for all involved artistic disciplines. They expand and help them grow in unexpected directions while deepening their roots, especially for poetry itself.
An Artistic Collaboration with Global Reach
The filmmaking duo, Kafetzi and Salouvardou, skillfully weave together vivid scenes, initially envisioned by Maria, of a woman spinning a red thread from her throat with protest footage captured by Alkistis from around the world. This fusion underscores the universal struggle of individuals as a collective battle.
Musical and Linguistic Fusion
Musician Morton (Vasils Chountas), known as Whodoes, collaborated with Hlín, producing an album titled “Andrými.” The piece “Raddbandaharpa” also featured in a compilation by Greek music magazine Lung fanzine, showcasing the best new music. The selection committee was captivated by the sound of the Icelandic language.
The Timeless Struggle for Women’s Voices
Hlín reflects on the poem’s origins, tying it to the universal struggle against external and internal silencing. Historically, oppressive forces have sought to suppress women’s voices, both socially and literally.
Art in Athens: A Unique Experience
Living in Greece, Hlín finds inspiration in the cultural crossroads of East and West. She notes the emotional intensity of poetry readings in Athens, contrasting with the more subdued Icelandic gatherings. The Athens art scene, reminiscent of the revolutionary spirit of the 1960s, embraces art’s purpose to effect positive change.
Future Aspirations and Challenges
Although Hlín is unable to accompany her film to its next destination, Mexico, due to her commitments to opera rehearsals and performances, her vision continues to inspire and resonate globally.