Time Dilation is a manifestation of Anwar’s and Nicholas’ experience when they were both working together. They both experience time being slowed down as they enter a remote village in Pahang during YAE! Extend Residency Program hosted by National Art Gallery Malaysia.

“Both of us were from the city and we are used to living a normal fast-paced life. As we entered the village, it felt as if time had stretched out and slowed down. There are constant peripheral movements in the city that enable us to perceive the passing of time. However, there are less peripheral movements in the village which makes the passing of time almost discernable, making time feel much longer. Moving from the city to the village became a state of change, enabling a comparative experience to us.”

“Time Dilation took the value of time slowing down into an experience for the urban public sphere. It acts as an agent for us to shape the audience's perception of time. The constant movement of the panel blades awash with vibrant moving lights give a constant impression of the passing time, however, there are moments where the blades pause and the visitors have to wait for a few seconds more. This pause is a form of dissonance, breaking the constant perception of time thus making time feel much longer. By participating with the work, the visitors unintentionally have to be patient, rewarding them in the ways of delayed gratification.” - Anwar and Nicholas