Home Is Where The Squatters Are

Carbon Anderson

Ryu Aguilar

Tess Bonacci

Vanessa Barros Andrade

Liliana Lacayo

Steven Vainberg

Liminal spaces are characterized by their transitory nature and the absence of continuous human presence. These spaces often evoke a sense of eeriness or disorientation due to their in-between state. The defining factor of a liminal space is the initial presence of people, followed by their absence, creating a landscape that feels abandoned. These areas may include hallways, waiting rooms, or empty malls. Places that are designed for people but currently lack their presence. In contrast, spaces of constant human occupancy are regularly inhabited and integrated into daily life. Evidence of continuous occupancy includes perishables, signs of regular use, and an overall sense of purpose and activity. Things collected and transported. Things harbored and planned upon.

In abandoned spaces, objects such as walls, locked doors, and windows, meant to serve human needs, act on their own, contributing to the desolate atmosphere. Objects enter a state of decay where thin layers of dust blanket the landscape and mold thrives undisturbed. To make sudden and interdicted use of a space that was once abandoned is to break the lock. To utilize a previously unused or forsaken area, is to overcome any barriers, ones that once appeared resilient are now fallen. Home is where the squatters are. Like regicide in a game of chess the lords of the land will be made to play fair.

Curated by Vanessa Barros Andrade