Sight of Solitude is a kinetic installation that explores our perception of loneliness and solitude in modern society. The work is inspired by the dynamic interplay of weather patterns, and rapid changes such as shifting clouds and large mist banks in mountainous landscapes. Ellis creates dense mist banks between visitors, symbolising disconnection. The installation is interactive: when visitors actively seek contact with one another, airflow increases, dispersing the mist more rapidly. When visitors remain still, the mist lingers longer. This interplay reflects the importance of human connection, highlighting that the quality of our interactions, rather than the quantity of people around us, defines meaningful connections.
Holman exploring the complexity of human emotions, inspired by the landscapes around her. She creates installations, objects, short films, and photography work. Her recent studies of mountain cloud formations deeply influence her work, particularly the collision of movement and stillness—how vast landscapes can vanish behind mist as if the world had momentarily ceased to exist. Evoking a sense of disconnection.
Nights spent alone in the high mountains brought Ellis profound calm. She didn’t feel lonely being alone, yet realising she had felt that way among others in her daily life sparked reflection. Conversations with hikers on the path revealed the Dutch word "eenzaamheid" conflates loneliness and solitude, often casting it negatively, as something to avoid. Ellis challenges this perception, showing the beauty of solitude as essential to a balanced life. Her installation shows a performance that shows both states, uniting them within a single coherent space where the public becomes part of the work and can decide for themselves how to experience the piece.
This project is supported by the Forci Art Foundation, Van Vlissingen Art Foundation and Het Mondriaan Fonds.
Technical Engineering by Coen den Haan
