Precocious creations with Dane Dodds

Not only continuing to create amazing videos and exhibitions Dane is also working on creating his first documentary, studying to become a bush doctor. Oh, and he also plans to be the first individual to make the first full feature film on the moon.

Can you divulge a few of the current projects you and Sirius Tales have been working on?

I am busy developing some shorter term projects now as I find myself heavily involved in long-term projects. Just trying not to make things for the sake of making things, though. Sound Africa is the most active project running along side Sirius Tales. Briefly, it is a creative non-fiction radio documentary podcast. Having just concluded the first season, we are now recapping and coming back to the base to analyse what we have created and grow season two. We are looking for radio journalists who are interested in becoming involved.

I have bought an old 1985 Mercedes Benz motor home called Mrs G, and, for the last few months, I have been living in and out of it in an attempt to be wherever I need to be to create what I want to create. I am traveling around the country and basing myself temporarily where I need to be. One of the projects that I am currently working on is my first documentary, entitled AITSA. Along the way I am learning a lot about medicinal plants and healing, where I can, as a bush doctor. Then there are the many other ongoing dreams that slowly develop with me.

Can you tell us a bit more about your exhibition: 1994?

The exhibition 1994 took place this time last year in Tromsø, Norway. The show was really well received and almost sold out. 1994 is, however, developing with me - so I hope to be exhibiting in SA soon.

What was it like working with Faith47 for Landfill Meditation?

This will be my third year working under and alongside Faith47. She is an absolutely incredible artist and person and has so much to teach. Making Landfill Meditation taught me how to create more sensitively.

What did you learn from your time working with Fly on the Wall?

The learning that I got from my time with Fly on the Wall has been less technical learning and more learning about what it means to create and the responsibility that comes with that.

From living with reindeer herders to gaining exposure with the provocative Dookoom music video, you have accomplished and experienced much for someone so young. What has been some of your career highlights?

You have mentioned two of the big ones in the question. However, I would say that getting to work alongside and under some of the people that really inspired and shaped me has been a huge privilege. Another highlight is that I am getting to travel and get a better understanding and perspective of the world. All the projects and productions I have been involved in have had their highlights and meant a lot to me. It feels strange trying to single them out.

There are so many new career options and paths for young people today. What would be your advice for any youngsters trying to forge their own way?

Follow your gut/passion. Trust it. There is no other way to be truly successful. To work smart and to check yourself and your intentions. So far, although difficult at times I am doing what I feel I was meant to do.

Which social media channel is your favourite?

Instagram.

What are your thoughts on Generation Z?

The Generation Z that I see is the first group to have grown up not knowing what it is to be offline.

The internet is a necessary evil that we as the human race are using to progress and speed up our development and evolution beyond what we think possible, which is, of course, scary and risky. Generation Z finds themselves behind the steering wheel of a human created 'cyber galaxy' that comes with big challenges, such as insecurities, moral dilemmas, power and information overload. In order to cope with the madness, I believe that eventually we will become more connected with the Earth. But before that it seems there is far more discourse in their path.

DOOKOOM_ LARNEY JOU POES from Dane Dodds on Vimeo.

If you could travel back in time and give a message to your younger self, what would it be?

I honestly believe that if I would have told myself anything, then it may have prevented me from learning things that I have learnt and I may not have ended up being where I am today. Everything that will happen now, and in the future, is happening for a reason. Even if the reason is simply for learning.

What is your favourite emoji?

I don’t use the -Alien/Question mark- but really enjoy the current 'trend' with this as it seems to be a way of subliminally feeding curiosity. I enjoy communicating through giffs.

What’s next?

Now it is just about tuning in and allowing my gut and tapping in my chest to do the work. I am searching for something bigger than I can comprehend. It looks like the next year holds a lot in long-term projects; however I am busy doing some shorter term work as well to keep the flame dancing.

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