Listen by Jay Pops
Spoken word on film
2022
Digital commission for Duniya Behter
This work is based on a spoken word piece by Jay about his own experiences with depression and loneliness.
By sharing his story of vulnerability with such courage, Jay hopes to let others going through similar things know that they are not alone.
Artist Statement:
“I thought this was a good opportunity to try new things and build my confidence because I find it hard to talk about my feelings. It’s been a good experience seeing how things work behind the scenes. I liked working on telling my own story and getting the support and encouragement to do it.” — Jay Pops
About the artist:
Jay Pops
Jay Pops was born in West Samoa and grew up in New Zealand where he was an active rugby player.
Jay loves to create video edits to dance music, inspired by an old school, hip-pop aesthetic and different vibes.
Jay is exploring creativity as a way to express struggle and to search for belonging. He imagines a world where more Polynesian youths are empowered to share their experiences, whether happy or sad, in the hopes that others will listen and relate.
Related Projects:
Listen by Jay Pops was commissioned through MAV’s program Duniya Behter. Supported by the Victorian Government through the Priority Response to Multicultural Communities during Coronavirus (PRMC) program. Duniya Behter is delivered in partnership with Point of Difference Studios.
