Questions to Siri

This project presents a series of poetic, fragmented questions addressed to the virtual assistant Siri, blending humor and vulnerability to explore themes of isolation, self-doubt, and the search for meaning. The questions range from the mundane “how do I grow my hair back in 7 days?” to the profoundly existential “does it ever stop?”. Through this dialogue with technology, Aljeally reflects on the paradox of digital connectivity and emotional loneliness, touching on issues like derealization and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The work captures the anxiety of modern life, particularly from the perspective of a young woman navigating personal and external chaos. While rooted in Aljeally’s experiences, the piece resonates universally, using Siri as a metaphor for the elusive answers we seek in times of crisis. The digital format underscores the theme of technology as both a conduit and a barrier to human connection. The collection was installed as part of the solo exhibition “Middle Voids” at The French Institute in Khartoum, 2022, where the audience was invited to participate by asking their own questions to Siri. The 10 artworks were displayed and provided within a room for the audience to share their questions to the machine. I was curious  what people would ask a device that they wouldn’t ask out loud. And I then recorded those questions.