Across the two films, Line Krom explores the concept of dust as a living archive to uncover the intertwined histories of human and animal interactions. Dust particles, often seen as mere debris, hold crucial information about their environments, containing remnants of animal feed, soil, microorganisms, and industrial residues. By analysing dust from various farms and industrial sites, we trace the evolution of farming practices, shifts in animal husbandry, and their impacts on human and animal lives.

‍

The German concept of Staubfänger - literally a "dust catcher" - is the starting point for both films. Staubfänger are objects that are left to gather dust - like the artefacts in Dust Catcher and the mechanical feeders in The Farmer. These items in which dust is captured are perceived not to be valuable enough to be thrown away, yet they are not considered precious - there is a utilitarian need to be fulfilled. Nonetheless, what can the microscopic sedimentation of dust and the spaces in which the dust is gathered imply for humans and the larger ecological and economical landscapes?

‍

The creative process was not without its fair share of difficulties. Though Line initially wanted to look at agricultural crops such as corn/maize, the rain in the countryside kept the soil wet - hence preventing ploughing and reducing airborne dust that was needed for this project. Therefore, an indoor shift, as visible in Dust Catcher, was necessary to highlight the subtle yet profound presence of dust in the museum. Once a family farm house, the museum also was particularly used for filming the Grimm Brothers fairy tales. Keeping in line with the site-derived connotations and intertextual references Line reimagines the entire body as a whimsical staubfänger. Perhaps this dreamlike state is a reminder about the body going down to dust at the end of the day. By stark contrast, in the contemporary architecture that presents a sterilised experience of the poultry farm, the thin film of dust in the machines of The Farmer, becomes a politically charged visual on the care given when treating livestock.

‍

Through both films, Line invites the audience to relook at how dust speaks to larger issues, and hence highlighting the balance needed in human consumption.