Composer and producer Max Cooper recently embarked on a unique project that aimed to tap into the hidden emotions of his audience. By asking what individuals wanted to express but felt they couldn’t in their everyday lives, Cooper received an overwhelming response that delved into a range of passionate feelings.
This outpouring of emotions led to a collaboration between Cooper, musician Félix Gerbelot, and animator Masanobu Hiraoka, resulting in a multi-part project titled “On Being.” The project encompasses an album and digital installation, with the opening track accompanied by a poignant music video that sets the tone for the entire endeavor.
The music video, featuring Gerbelot’s viola paired with Hiraoka’s mesmerizing visuals, takes viewers on a captivating journey of growth and loss. Through a combination of meditative instrumentals and monochromatic animations that appear to emerge from a single line, the film captures the essence of the shared emotional landscape uncovered by Cooper’s initial question.
Hiraoka’s unique approach to the visuals, incorporating rotoscoping and personal family videos, adds a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the project. The animation races through the birth and development of a child, creating a dynamic and energetic portrayal of universal human emotion.
The end result is a tender portrait that resonates with viewers on a deeply emotional level, offering a glimpse into the intricate tapestry of human experience. For more information on the “On Being” project, visit the official website and immerse yourself in this captivating exploration of the human psyche.

