INTERVIEW Karoline Ketelhake
PUBLISHED 24.FEB 2025
Shadi Jafarabadi is a designer and artist living in Hamburg. In her work Monetary Mirrors, she explores money as a mirror of identity, with a particular focus on how the power of money is influenced by currency fluctuations.
// What are you most excited about with LICHTROUTEN?
I’m thrilled to be part of LICHTROUTEN because it marks my third video mapping experience—a chance to push creative boundaries further. I’m excited by the opportunity to collaborate with a dynamic community, further refine my technical skills, and craft compelling political visual stories that engage, inspire, and evoke real-time reactions from the audience as they watch.
// How did your journey into light art begin?
My journey into light art began in December 2023 during a video mapping workshop at my university. The experience of working with a supportive, creative team was incredibly inspiring. It not only made the process enjoyable but also ignited my passion for video mapping, motivating me to pursue further projects in subsequent semesters.
// Why did you choose video mapping as a method to represent the connection between money and identity over time?
Video mapping is an incredibly powerful medium that allows me to reach a broad and diverse audience in open spaces. Its dynamic and immersive qualities enable viewers from different generations and cultures to engage deeply with the work. They can find meaning in specific images, words, or even the musical cues I create—often leading to unexpected and positive surprises
// Was there a specific event or experience that inspired you to create Monetary Mirrors?
Yes, the concept of Monetary Mirrors was largely inspired by my experience in the Exhibiting Media Arts course with Bettina Pelz. The constructive feedback and supportive atmosphere from both the instructor and my classmates were pivotal.
// What role do the RGB colors play in Monetary Mirrors?
The RGB color scheme was central to Monetary Mirrors, as it initially underscored the project’s foundation in light art. In the original version, I used RGB to create vibrant, colorful scenes designed to captivate and attract the audience. However, in the new version, I’ve moved away from using RGB filters. Instead, I focus on emphasizing the core message: exploring the powerful legacy of the US dollar—highlighting its historical ties to slavery in the US and colonialism in Europe—and its impact on identity and currency. This shift allows the narrative to stand out more clearly without the distraction of overtly vibrant colors.
// How does the grid influence your work? Why did you choose a grid by Karl Gerstner?
The grid is a crucial compositional tool in my work. The grid, in particular, offers a balanced structure that guides the viewer’s focus and aids in managing the narrative flow. It helps me organize visual elements, ensuring that every part of the composition contributes to the overall story. This structured approach not only enhances storytelling but also elevates the visual impact of the piece.