SEVENTH DAY by Ting Ning Wen

On the seventh day after a person’s death, their soul would transform into an animal and return home to visit their family. However, the house I grew up with has been sold recently. In my dream, everything happens in that house. I woke up in tears, realising that I could no longer return.

This film delves into the emotional and psychological journey of grappling with the distance—both physical and emotional—between my life in the UK and my family’s roots in Taiwan. It explores the intersection of contemporary art and Buddhist beliefs surrounding life and death, particularly the folklore in Taiwan where, on the seventh day after one’s passing, the soul is said to transform into an animal and return home to visit loved ones. Growing up in a Buddhist household, this belief holds deep significance for me.

Recently, the house of my upbringing was sold, prompting a poignant reflection on the transient nature of home and the inevitable passage of time. In my dreams, I find myself immersed in scenes from that cherished home, awakening with a profound sense of loss as I realise that physical return is no longer possible. These dreams raise existential questions: What form will my soul take after death? Can it traverse the vast distance between the UK and Taiwan? And if so, will my loved ones recognize my spiritual presence when I visit them in the guise of an animal?

TING-NING WEN is a bilingual performer and movement facilitator based in London and originally from Taiwan, is a co-founder of Ensemble Not Found, an acclaimed theatre company. With an MFA in Choreography from Trinity Laban, Ting-Ning leads Everyday Movement Workshops regularly, encouraging participants to explore the theatrical potential within daily behaviours. She also collaborates with emerging artists across diverse disciplines, including architecture, sound design, visual art, and data analysis. @gladyswen