In the basement of the University of Alberta North Power Plant building, among the hidden rooms and the many underground spaces/tunnels of the university, is this narrow hallway. At the beginning and end of the corridor there are two doorways, one to enter and walk through, the other at the end of the space, showing a projection of an endless hallway leading into darkness.
This is a liminal space. Somewhere in-between here and the next place, and which serves as a transition. Being underground, amongst wires which transfer data/power, moving lights, obscured writings on the wall, and surrounded by earth, this is somewhere which feels like an underbelly not meant to be seen by anyone, but which might provide technical and mechanical support for the building.
Upon viewing the space, it is all dark, except for the projection at the end. By walking through the open door frame at the beginning, the lights above will unexpectedly start to turn on and off in sequence, leading the viewer’s attention forward. The walls are covered by wires on all sides, which are seemingly important, but will be unknown in function for almost anyone who doesn’t have the specific knowledge. Some are native to the building and actively moving data, others are powering the lights and devices, and some may just be old wires that have been forgotten, lost in the complexity of the space, with their functions unknown. Possibly they are not needed. Possibly they belong to a different era of the building.
I created this space to feel mesmerizing. Being underground in a dark narrow corridor disconnects you from the rest of the world. While walking through the Liminal Passage, you are edged forward by the lights and video combined with visually interesting wires and textured walls surrounding you. When you reach the end, the projection suggests more space, but it is a physical barrier—you cannot move forward.
In my life, I relate this liminal space with the idea of being mindful of your journey and not only focusing on the end. In this space, you may be on the verge of understanding the faint writings on the wall or be heading where the endless tunnel leads, but you are turned back, so you can walk through the space once more and look at what is enveloping you.
Recording of the space:
Video projected on the door – Endless hallway 3d render:
