After nearly ten years since her last film, acclaimed artist Camille Henrot returns to the screen with her much-anticipated work, In the Veins, set to premiere at the New Museum as part of the exhibition "New Humans." Henrot, whose previous film Grosse Fatigue won her the Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale, has dedicated over five years to crafting this 35-minute piece.
The film explores themes of caretaking amidst the climate crisis, showcasing poignant scenes of wildlife rehabilitation intertwined with the everyday lives of children. Henrot's distinctive editing style, characterized by its vibrant visuals and associative narrative, lends a surreal yet sobering tone to the film. Through moments of care--like a child reading stories to animals--Henrot highlights the fragility of life and the urgency of our collective future.
In an interview, Henrot expressed her motivation for the film, which stemmed from the beauty she observed in the gestures of caring for children. She aimed to portray the often-overlooked aspects of parenting, focusing on the physical acts of care rather than dramatic narratives typically found in cinema. The film reflects her personal experiences and emotions as a parent grappling with climate grief and the impact of environmental degradation on future generations.
Henrot's creative process involved a unique approach to editing, where she crafted conceptual maps to connect emotions and ideas, emphasizing rhythm and repetition. This technique not only enhances the film's narrative but also mirrors the cyclical nature of caregiving and ecological awareness. The editing creates a powerful juxtaposition between the vulnerability of children and wildlife, reinforcing the interconnectedness of all living beings.
As the film prepares to reach audiences in Europe this summer, Henrot's work invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with nature and the responsibilities that come with it. With a blend of personal storytelling and broader environmental themes, In the Veins stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in addressing pressing global issues.
As we look to the future, Henrot's film serves as a reminder of the profound connections between humans and the natural world, urging us to cultivate empathy and action in the face of climate change.
