The track scratches the surface of the power dynamics I experienced in my late teens and twenties with someone 20 years older—a dynamic that lasted over a decade.

I filmed, directed and edited this clip in my home in the depths of Christchurch winter. I wanted this video and song to feel unsettled, on edge, isolated and detached.

The video is a self-portrait of my experience with high-functioning depression. My character exists within a box that never stays the same. It tightens, expands, but never at her will. I wanted to show feelings of isolation and powerlessness. My character appears composed—makeup, a suit—but psychologically is not.

As I was filming and editing this video, I thought a lot about Cindy Sherman and her process of taking self portraits. She does her own makeup, sets up the camera, gets into character, and takes photos, all while working unassisted. Knowing this made me feel comforted as I put on my suit over a series of freezing cold Christchurch nights and experimented with a handy cam, a projector, and simple textures. My years spent making music alone, and Cindy’s work, guided me in making this video (and YouTube tutorials of course).

With Soft Power, I hope this record inspires people to see that true power doesn’t come from control or dominance, it comes from something much quieter and deeper within us. True power radiates from the heart, not the head, and leads from love rather than fear.

I hope to see a world where soft power is the star.

☆