Post 7: How do you make it? - Sky Hopinka

How does Sky Hopinka use his medium of choice? What inspired him to use video?

Hopinka’s work is rooted in his identity, language, and how memory and place intersect. In the interview with Rebecca Sutton, he talks about his experiences growing up around the Ho-Chunk and Pechanga communities, which later influenced his exploration of Indigenous storytelling. Hopinka’s creative process is shaped by a desire to preserve and reinterpret the cultural narratives of his people. One of his key inspirations is the notion of language as a living entity, something that carries history and meaning beyond just words. This perspective informs his use of experimental video techniques to challenge linear storytelling and conventional documentary forms.

Hopinka uses layered imagery, text, and sound to construct a meditative experience. His approach to video is not strictly representational; instead, he blends abstraction with personal narratives, creating a dreamlike visual language. The use of superimposition and poetic subtitles in his films emphasizes the complexities of memory, place, and identity. Video becomes a space where he can deconstruct and reconstruct meaning, moving away from rigid structures to embrace fluidity and subjectivity. As Hopinka states, "How do we negotiate these technologies and how do we make them a part of our daily lives in a way that is meaningful to the past, but at the same time relevant for the future? It's a challenge, especially with Indigenous stories or any sort of people that have been affected by colonization." His work attempts to bridge this gap, making technology a tool for both historical preservation and future relevance.

What material/medium/process do you use and how? What inspired you to make your work that way?

Reflecting on my work as a designer, I see parallels in how medium and process shape meaning. I primarily use illustration, photography, and digital media to explore themes of social issues and personal identity. My inspiration comes from a mix of dark aesthetics and modern design, which allow me to communicate bold, urgent messages while still incorporating a sense of personal expression. Similar to Hopinka’s approach, I often layer imagery and text to create a dynamic interplay between visuals and meaning, encouraging viewers to engage beyond the surface. The process of blending traditional and digital media helps me break away from conventional formats, much like how Hopinka experiments with video to redefine storytelling.