Exploring a new location can push individuals outside of their comfort zones, offering new perspectives on their lives back home. However, few experiences are as transformative as the initial journey to a foreign country. The excitement of new sights, smells, people, foods, and experiences can have a profound, indescribable impact.
“Inner Portrait,” a recent documentary by Turkish Airlines and media artist Refik Anadol, utilizes data and technology to visualize and articulate the transformative experience of travel. The film, which premiered at Istanbul’s Atatürk Cultural Center some months ago, is now available for streaming on Hulu.
The documentary features four first-time travelers from diverse backgrounds. Tuikuru, originally from the Amazon in Brazil, explores the lively streets of Tokyo. Esther from Kenya discovers the historical richness of Istanbul. Sahar, an Australian, investigates the ancient marvels of Göbeklitepe and Cappadocia in Turkey, while Sigurbjörn from Iceland experiences the stunning landscape of Jordan.
“Inner Portrait” goes beyond simply documenting these travelers’ journeys by employing advanced technology such as EEG sensors and Empatica Watches to capture their emotional responses as data points. This data is then transformed by Refik Anadol and his creative team into an art piece that visually represents the awe-inspiring emotions commonly felt during travel.
The documentary illustrates that despite the varied life experiences of the featured travelers, their brain’s reactions to new experiences are strikingly similar, reminding viewers of the universal nature of such journeys. According to Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee at Turkish Airlines, the documentary underscores that travel is not merely a physical journey but an experience that deeply transforms one’s inner world. As an airline serving the most countries globally, Turkish Airlines aims to connect people worldwide through art and culture.
By watching the experiences of Tuikuru, Esther, Sahar, and Sigurbjörn, viewers are encouraged not to take travel for granted and are inspired to plan their next adventures. “Inner Portrait” is currently available to watch on Hulu, and Turkish Airlines is promoted as a means to facilitate future travel plans.
