I like to explore abstract and unnamed emotions that we experience but struggle to articulate.
Since 2015, I have collected over 150 such emotions, building my own Nameless Emotion Dictionary. Most entries emerged from introspection, while others were inspired by conversations with people from diverse cultural backgrounds and by exploring emotions that exist in one language but not in another. Here are some examples:
Some emotions are expressed as longer narratives:
In spring 2024, I brought this passion into the realm of technology and art as part of my final project, "Nameless Emotions", in the Arts in Action course. Drawing from our exploration of global and local arts, I used this interdisciplinary experience to create an interactive exhibition that transcends linguistic boundaries and dives into the uncharted depths of human emotions.
'Arts in Action' exhibition, May 2024
At the exhibition, participants encountered interactive webcam filters I developed for 27 nameless emotions. Each filter conveyed the essence of an emotion through unique colors, shapes, and visual effects. Attendees explored these emotions by engaging with the filters using movements and facial expressions, creating a personal, immersive experience. This project illuminated the ways culture shapes emotional understanding, fostering dialogue and encouraging participants to contribute their own reflections.
If you would like to name any of the ones I’ve shared, have your own nameless emotions, have felt any of those presented here, or want to share new ones, I would love to hear from you!