Memory Palace is a site-specific performance that delves into the connection between place and memory. The historical Shepard Hall Tower, particularly the top two floors, serves as the canvas for this artistic exploration. Here, Ayebe metaphorically approaches these floors as the subconscious and conscious realms of the mind, reimagining the space as a vessel of memory.
Within these floors lie centralized control units of the building, representing the technical and functional aspects. Ayebe skillfully guides the audience through the transformed halls and stairs, altering them with the power of language, carefully curated objects, and evocative imagery. Through storytelling, she artfully weaves personal memories into the architecture of the tower, creating a tapestry of experiences and emotions.
Memory Palace beckons contemplation on the porous relationship between the physical environment and the memories it holds. By layering personal recollections onto the structure, the performance illuminates the dynamic interplay between place and memory, highlighting how our experiences are imprinted upon the spaces we inhabit. It prompts us to reflect on the ways in which our surroundings influence our recollection of the past, challenging our understanding of memory and the places we hold dear.
Burçin Ayebe 