How do I begin? I've hesitated to post this here, because what I'm about to share is intensely personal. But it’s time to tell the story behind our audio feature, “Das Licht Im Treppenhaus,” which won three awards from the 2024 edition of the Art Directors Club (ADC) Germany:
Gold for Copy
Bronze for Audio Design
Bronze for Experiment/Communication Arts
⚠ TW: rape and sexual assault.
Nearly 5 years ago, I was raped by a stranger who followed me home from a party. It happened on the staircase of my apartment building. In the days that followed, I was engulfed by fear and overwhelming shame. I isolated myself in my bedroom, avoiding the outside world. Art became my salvation. I started drawing scenes from that night and the months that followed.
Gradually, my scattered drawings formed a 66-panel comic strip. As I created, I felt my emotional strength returning. The experience was no longer a silent burden; it was a story I wanted to shout from the rooftops. I began talking openly about it, having meaningful conversations with those around me. These talks revealed how common rape and sexual assault are, yet they remain shrouded in silence due to shame – the isolating feelings of “I am in this alone” and “How will others see me?”
Determined to break this silence, I decided to share my story. I created a self-funded art exhibit in Berlin: “The Only Ones Left In The World.” The emotional feedback was overwhelming.
~ ~ ~
After the exhibit, I received a message from Tobias Feige, a former colleague. He had seen the exhibit online and felt inspired to write an audio feature about it. Our collaboration blossomed from there, rooted in trust, respect, and openness. Tobias’s beautiful words captured my story perfectly, and I was deeply moved by his understanding and empathy.
Over the next years, Tobias's script evolved into a powerful piece. With stunning performances by Lou Strenger and Vanida Karun, and the mesmerizing sound composition by Sebastian Steiner from 3Klang GmbH - Tonstudio Düsseldorf, supported by Sina Tonk and her incredible team at TERRE DES FEMMES e. V., the project came to life.
I could never have imagined all this 4 years ago when I was warned about my exhibit: “Do you want to be known as the one who got raped?” One experience doesn’t define you or erase your achievements; it adds depth, complexity, and strength. I hope this piece shows that we have the power to change our narrative, empower others, and prove that no one is alone.
This is not the end of the journey. I am hopeful that more will follow, bringing this crucial topic further into the light. ✨
Finally, I want to extend a profound thank you to dear friends, former colleagues, collaborators, and new connections throughout this journey – you know who you are. Your support has meant everything. 💜
Along with the wonderful Sina Tonk from Terre des Femmes, and my partner in crime on this project and writer of the beautiful text, Tobias Feige.