The Journeys of Cliza
Towards a Queer Mythological Ecology
The Journeys of Cliza unfolds in a mythical universe inhabited by transmogrified human-animal beings caught in a long-lasting feud between rival Houses. This experimental non-linear narrative explores conflict, displacement and trauma, but also hope and love, and overcoming adversity.
Cliza @ Villa Borghese
Cliza, a human-wild boar warrior descendant of Turiacus, roams through the Villa Borghese at night, seeking other warriors to form their own House.
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The Occupation
Having founded their own House, Cliza and their warriors occupy the library at the British School at Rome.
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Preparation for Battle
In preparation for battle, Cliza and their retinue set up an itinerant court in the subterranean bowels of Cosmo Trastevere, in Rome.
Reel by Cosmo Trastevere. Full video here
The Banquet
At the battle of Transterrum, Oretta, a human-fish descendant of Triton and the head of the House with their namesake, defeats the House of Cliza. To celebrate their victory, Oretta hosts a banquet in Rome. The heads of other houses from neighbouring lands attend the celebrations. But Cliza, who was presumed dead, storms the event with their warriors and murders Oretta and the other dignitaries.
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Karlota's Journey
After murdering Oretta and the other dignitaries, Cliza sets off to lay claim to the lands of those they slaughtered and travels first to the lands of Karlota, a human-crow descendant of Odin and head of the House of Karlota. However, Karlota survived the attack and speedily returns to their queerdom.