Interchange

Andrew Stiff

synopsis

Year

university

This work delves into the intricate and often misunderstood cultural and ecological dynamics of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). Examining the boundary between water and air ecosystems through the lens of the Te Canal, Andrew Stiff challenges the perceptions of the canal as a lifeless space and emphasises its role in the city's ecological network.

The visual elements of the film focus on the Te Canal, capturing both the surface and the interactions occurring at the boundary between water and air. The film's central theme is the interdependency between the canal and its surrounding ecosystems, aiming to shift the viewer's perception from seeing the canal as a polluted space to recognising it as a vibrant, communicative entity. The film portrays the canal as a living organism, engaging with its environment and influencing the city's pace. The technical execution, including cinematography and sound design, explores the contrast between the bustling city and the tranquil canal, reinforcing the film's thematic focus.

Andrew Stiff’s filmmaking practice is rooted in an exploration of urban spaces, with a focus on the dynamic interplay between the built and natural environments. Currently based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, he has been particularly drawn to the city's vast network of alleyways—known locally as hems—which form the majority of the urban landscape. Captivating urban forms reveal the intricate relationship between community and family, as these elements are deeply embedded throughout the city’s fabric. Observing the built environment allows for understanding how communities operate, exposing the outcomes of the delicate balance between life and the city. Andrew's current body of work extends this exploration to the Te Canal and its surroundings, enabling me to delve into the complex relations between man-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems. Through this work, the artist aims to demonstrate how these environments intersect and evolve.