I decided it was my duty to educate myself in order to have a deeper knowledge of these systemic problems and issues, even if it is not my native country. After marching with thousands of others against police brutality and racial injustice, I experienced a true version of solidarity that showed me the best part of people in NYC. JG: Initially, I was very angry and frustrated.
NY: What was your state of mind early last summer, while we were getting out of a lockdown and protests were happening all over the city? She is a true icon, a perfect example of New Yorkers who truly inspire me: a big heart paired with a sharp mind. JG: It’s also because I learned about NYC through her books. It was released in1988 but it could have been an anthem for the summer of 2020 in New York with all the protests against the killing of George Floyd and police brutality. NY: Your second selection: Patti Smith “ People Have The Power”. It has made me support strangers and respect different cultures and learn to recognize individuals. NYC makes me sensual-it changed my perspective on wildlife, the importance of nature and instilled me with an appreciation of gardening (I am currently growing bell peppers on my fire escape). NY: What does the “Metamorphosis” inspire you? Would you say NYC is a city that transforms people? Drive and energy instead come from experiments, mistakes, a constant cycle of learning and accepting. For me this is pure drive! Drive doesn’t come from the predictable. NYC is the same the city is a mixture of cultures and people, all of whom come from all over for many different reasons. That process and its result might allow you to arrive at a place that is unknown or unexpected. JULIA GOVOR: Unpredictability is a huge part of being an artist: you develop your voice which translates from personal experiences into your music or whatever form of art is your practice. You said “NYC has such an amazing energy powered by unpredictability”. Right after you moved from Berlin to New York, you saw a pianist perform Philip Glass in Washington Square Park and you had this New York moment, when you connect with the people, the music and the city. NOUVEAU YORK: Your first New York selection is Philip Glass’ “ Metamorphosis” (1988), which reminds me of an anecdote you once told.