Jaguar Jonze’s “victim impact statement” serves as a reaffirmation of her identity

Photo credit: Dusky Jonze

After emerging from a complete social media blackout earlier this month, Taiwanese-Australian artist Jaguar Jonze unveils her latest project, “victim impact statement,” marking a raw return to the spotlight. Comprising an EP – featuring three powerful new tracks – a self-directed short film, and evocative self-portrait album artwork, this release signifies a creative rebirth for Jaguar Jonze.

Jaguar Jonze · victim impact statement

Following five years dedicated to advocating for survivors in the #MeToo movement in Australia, Jaguar Jonze reclaims her narrative with this EP, refusing to be confined by others’ expectations. The EP, entirely written, recorded, and mixed by Jaguar Jonze herself, encapsulates an emotionally charged journey through its three tracks.

“The victim impact statement EP + short film was written as a gift to myself; to return my voice and own my body – this is my protest,” Jaguar Jonze says about her release. “To remind myself why I came into art and music in the first place. To take back my potential and take up the space I deserve in this world. To rely on myself for justice.”

“whiplash” opens the record with stripped-back acoustic melodies and lyrics reflecting Jaguar Jonze’s journey over the past five years, while “nothing left” delves into despondency and societal pressures. Closing track “full stop” represents a new beginning for Jonze, marked by assertiveness and hopefulness.

Accompanying the EP is a short film of the same name, directed by Jaguar Jonze’s, offering a visceral portrayal of her experiences over the past five years. From moments of wistfulness to defiant assertion, the film rejects societal expectations and celebrates Jaguar Jonze’s resilience.

Sonically, “victim impact statement” diverges from Jaguar Jonze’s previous releases, embracing delicate, soaring melodies that underscore her personal and artistic evolution. This deliberate shift sets the stage for Jaguar Jonze’s next chapter, including a potential second album and collaborations with international artists.

In a heartfelt statement, Jaguar Jonze reflects on her journey and the sacrifices made in her pursuit of justice. She emphasises reclaiming her voice and body through art, challenging societal norms, and advocating for survivors. Ultimately, “victim impact statement” serves as Jaguar Jonze’s protest, reclaiming her agency and reaffirming her identity as an artist. “I became an artist to tell stories and break the cycle that has followed me my whole life,” Jaguar Jonze says. “The cycle of slipping through the cracks of the complex systems built to protect society. I have worked hard to not let that pain define me. However, in 2019, I became the story when my body was taken without my consent.”

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