Kitâb al-Isfâr: Book of the Journey
Post-film conversation with filmmaker Baba Hillman and Salome Kokoladze, curator at Aurora Picture Show
U.S. Premiere
Baba Hillman’s lyrical essay film draws upon the writings of Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher Ibn ‘Arabī, and is a poetic exploration of a near-death and mystical experience in the mountains north of Malaga, Spain. Hillman's seven-year journey of return to Spain, Norway, and Scotland is guided by teachers and travelers met along the way, including German avant-garde artist Mary Bauermeister and author Denis Gril, a leading scholar on the work of Ibn ‘Arabī.
About the Filmmaker
Baba Hillman grew up in Japan, Venezuela, and Panama. Her films have been screened at international festivals and museums. She has also worked as a performer and choreographer, and taught film and performance in Canada, France, Italy, and the United States.
Community Partner: Aurora Picture Show
Presented in association with the French Cultures Festival
Underwriting for the Film Department is provided by Tenaris, The June Leaf and Robert Frank Foundation, and the Vaughn Foundation.
Generous funding is provided by The Consulate General of the Republic of Korea; Nina and Michael Zilkha; Lois Chiles; Foundation for Independent Media Arts; Franci Neely; Carrin Patman and Jim Derrick; Ms. Laurence Unger; L'Alliance Française de Houston; and ILEX Foundation.
Kitâb al-Isfâr: Book of the Journey
Directed by Baba Hillman
(France, 2020, 59 minutes, in English, Spanish, Arabic, and French with English subtitles)
Lynn Wyatt Theater