Hamptons Party Girl

Unveiling the First Literature Project at Guild Hall

This May, Guild Hall in East Hampton, NY, proudly presents the First Literature Project, a unique exhibition that combines virtual reality (VR) and traditional storytelling in the Shinnecock language. Developed by Guild Hall Community Artists-in-Residence Wunetu Wequai Tarrant and Christian Scheider, the project emerges after two years of creative development, funded by several prestigious grants.

Exhibition Details

Location: Marks Family Gallery South, Guild Hall, 158 Main Street, East Hampton, New York
Dates: May 18 – July 15, 2024
Admission: Free, timed entry required

An Immersive VR Experience

The First Literature Project leverages cutting-edge VR technology to bring ancient Shinnecock stories to life. Visitors can experience these narratives through the Apple Vision Pro headset, witnessing stories like Padawe—translated and narrated by Wunetu Wequai Tarrant, and originally penned by her grandmother Elizabeth Chee Chee Thunderbird Haile.

Supporting Native Narratives

FLP aims to preserve and propagate the native languages, narratives, and traditions of the Shinnecock people. It stands as a counter-narrative to historical accounts written by outsiders, presenting indigenous stories through the voices and perspectives of the community itself.

Funding and Support

The project’s realization was made possible through significant financial support from entities such as the Creatives Rebuild New York Artist Employment Grant, the Long Island Community Foundation, and the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation. These partnerships have enabled a full-scale production from conceptualization to exhibition.